Team-based approach to limb salvage

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine and Surgery
• Interdisciplinary Healthcare Models

Background:

• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) are complex conditions requiring coordinated patient management.
• Current care models often lack the integrated, multispecialty approach necessary for optimal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical role of multispecialty collaboration in managing PAD and CLTI.
• To outline the essential components of a comprehensive care team for these vascular conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of current best practices in PAD and CLTI management.
• Identification of key medical specialties and allied health professionals crucial for a comprehensive team.
• Highlighting the need for tailored strategies for diverse patient populations.

Main Results:

• Optimal patient care necessitates a collaborative team including vascular specialists, PCPs, podiatry, plastic surgery, infectious disease, endocrinology, social work, and rehabilitation.
• Specific attention must be given to the unique risks and needs of underrepresented groups, including minorities and geriatric patients.

Conclusions:

• A multispecialty, collaborative approach is fundamental for effective management of PAD and CLTI.
• Integrating diverse specialists and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations improves patient outcomes and reduces associated risks.