01
Severe open fractures
High-energy trauma with exposed bone and loss of soft tissue, where timing and team-based reconstruction are critical.
Patients & Families
If you are facing a threatened limb,
discuss your options with your care team.
General information about orthoplastic limb preservation for patients and families.
I · What Limb Preservation Is
Limb preservation is the practice of repairing severe injuries or disease of the arms and legs rather than proceeding to amputation. It combines the technical disciplines of orthopedic and plastic reconstructive surgery — bone, soft tissue, nerves, and blood supply — in a single, coordinated plan of care.
This page cannot determine whether limb preservation is an option for an individual patient. Questions about treatment options belong with the treating clinical team.
II · When to Seek an Orthoplastic Opinion
Conditions within our educational scope.
02
Chronic osteomyelitis
Persistent bone infection that has resisted prior treatment, often requiring combined bone and soft-tissue reconstruction.
03
Diabetic limb disease
Non-healing wounds, Charcot deformity, and ischemic complications in the diabetic foot and ankle.
04
Oncologic reconstruction
Limb reconstruction following resection of bone and soft-tissue tumors, with the goal of preserving function.
05
Post-traumatic deformity
Residual deformity, non-union, or malunion after prior trauma or surgery.
06
Failed prior reconstruction
Salvage after previous procedures have not achieved wound closure, bony union, or adequate function.
III · Finding Care
Speak with a local qualified healthcare professional.
OLPS does not provide referrals or accept patient or family inquiries through this website. Please contact your treating clinician, local health system, or an appropriately qualified healthcare professional for care and referral options.
A member opt-in directory is planned for the future. Until it is available, this site cannot connect you with a clinician or evaluate an individual medical situation.
Protect Your Privacy
- 01Do not send patient, medical, or health information to OLPS.
- 02Do not send records, imaging, photographs, test results, or treatment details.
- 03Do not use the contact form or email for protected health information (PHI).
- 04For urgent symptoms, seek emergency care or contact local emergency services.
OLPS provides educational information only and cannot assess, route, or coordinate individual care.
The information on this page is educational and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified surgeon about your specific condition.