Groundbreaking innovation in diabetic limb preservation at Medical City Las Colinas

Irving, Texas — A 62-year-old woman is the first to receive a revolutionary limb preservation procedure at Medical City Las Colinas that aims to prevent amputation. After months of suffering with a painful diabetic foot ulcer, Jackie Smith is looking forward to enjoying an active life again because of the innovative therapy.

Known as a transverse bone transport system, the outpatient procedure involves creating a controlled bone cut and then using a fixation device to gradually move a segment of the shinbone across the wound site. This movement amplifies the body’s natural defenses, stimulating the formation of new blood vessels, helping to heal the ulcer and potentially preserve the limb and prevent amputation. 

“This is a game-changer for some patients who may otherwise face an unavoidable amputation,” says Christina Mathis, CEO Medical City Las Colinas. “A commitment to advancing care from clinical research that results in innovative therapies like this is another reason the community turns to Medical City Las Colinas as the destination of choice for healthcare excellence.”

The entire process typically takes about two months and patients can maintain regular activities throughout the healing process. Good candidates are people with:

• Diabetes
• Non-healing or recurrent ulcers
• Failed to respond to conventional treatments 
• Poor circulation
• Limited blood flow

Jackie Smith, the first patient to receive the procedure at Medical City Las Colinas says, “Medical City Las Colinas really helped maintain my quality of life. I’m looking forward to being more active again with friends and family.” Watch her story here.

The orthopedic team at Medical City Las Colinas focuses on providing high-quality, individualized solutions for patients following an injury or illness. Learn more about the orthopedic services.