Number of diabetes-related amputations have increased in Bolton, according to charity

Recent figures have shown an increased number of people in Bolton have undergone a diabetes-related surgical procedure in the past three years.  

The figures, recorded by Diabetes UK, show 229 minor and major foot amputations occurred in the area between 2013 and 2016, an increase of 45 procedures on the previous three years. 

In addition, the statistics also showed a total of 25,527 amputations were recorded across the UK between 2013 and 2016. According to the charity, 80 per cent of the 135 leg, foot or toe amputations carried out on diabetes patients every week could be prevented.

The Bolton NHS Foundation Trust is now encouraging patients to take more care so they don’t risk surgery, by taking full advantage of its annual foot screening service and to make sure they rebook if they’re unable to attend. Patients who suffer from the condition are also strongly advised to regularly inspect their feet and maintain their foot hygiene as well as they would their hands to help avoid foot wounds.

It is not uncommon for diabetes to go undiagnosed, which can result in delayed treatment. It’s common for diabetes to be misdiagnosed which delays correct treatment and this kind of medical negligence can be detrimental to people’s lives and their recovery. 

Linda Millband, national lead lawyer for clinical negligence at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Diabetes is a growing health concern across the UK and an increasing strain on the NHS - one pound out of every £150 spent by the NHS in England is on diabetic-related complications, like amputations. Diabetes-related amputations are often caused by mismanagement of the condition, lack of diagnosis, or delay in treatment. 

“Thompsons Solicitors has a specialist team of medical negligence lawyers who have extensive experience dealing with both misdiagnosis and amputation claims. If you, or someone you know, has had an amputation that could have been prevented, don’t suffer in silence. 

“Adapting your life after an amputation, figuratively and literally, can be emotionally and financially straining. We can a build a case for compensation to help with financial costs and put you in touch with an expert support team.” 

A survey by Diabetes UK found that although 80 per cent of people in the north west that knew amputation can be a complication of diabetes, 32 per cent were not aware that people with diabetes are susceptible to foot ulcers, one of the leading reasons for amputation. Diabetes UK wants routine access to podiatrists and foot protection teams for people with diabetes, in order to assess and treat issues sooner. 

Infections, ulcers and other foot wounds can have devastating consequences as they can deteriorate rapidly, especially if diagnosis is delayed or treatment is mismanaged.

If you are based in the north west, our skilled medical negligence team at our Manchester office will be happy to speak with you.