Critical Limb Ischaemia: An Update For The Generalist

Critical limb ischaemia (CLI) occurs in those people with severely impaired peripheral circulation which can threaten the limb if not recognised or managed appropriately. It is more common in those with diabetes and is associated with poorer outcomes. Importantly, CLI is also a marker of associated cardiovascular disease.This paper describes how to recognise CLI, whether with or without tissue loss in the foot (ulceration and/or gangrene), and explains the importance of rapid and appropriate referral to a foot multidisciplinary team as part of an integrated pathway of care.In addition, it reviews the further clinical assessment of the person, and discusses the various more detailed investigations available for CLI.Finally, the treatment options available for the management of the individual with CLI are presented. Copyright (C) 2014 John Wiley & Sons.