Gangrene: Difference between revisions

Gangrene is caused by [[ischemia]] or [[infection]], such as by the [[bacteria]] ''[[Clostridium perfringens]]''<ref>[http://www.ebi.ac.uk/2can/genomes/bacteria/Clostridium_perfringens.html Clostridium as cause for gangrene]</ref> or by [[thrombosis]] (a [[blood vessel]] blocked by a blood clot). It is usually the result of critically insufficient [[blood]] supply (e.g., [[peripheral vascular disease]])<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Gardner|first1=AW|last2=Afaq|first2=A |title=Management of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease|journal=Journal of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and prevention|volume=28 |issue=6 |pages=349–357|year=2008|month=November–December |pmid=19008688|doi=10.1097/HCR.0b013e31818c3b96}}</ref> and is often associated with [[diabetes]]<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Korzon-Burakowska|first1=A|last2=Dziemidok|first2=P |title=Diabetic foot-the need for comprehensive multidisciplinary approach.|journal=Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine |volume=18 |issue=2 |pages=314–317|year=2011|month=December |pmid=22216805}}</ref> and long-term tobacco smoking. This condition is most common in the lower [[Limb (anatomy)|extremities]]. The best treatment for gangrene is [[revascularization]] (i.e., restoration of blood flow) of the affectedafflicted organ, which can reverse some of the effects of necrosis and allow healing. Other treatments include [[debridement]] and surgical [[amputation]]. The method of treatment is generally determined by the location of affected tissue and extent of tissue loss. Gangrene may appear as one effect of [[foot binding]].