Two breakthrough procedures — periosteal distraction and transverse tibial transport — can restore blood flow to your leg and heal wounds that won't close. Thousands of limbs have already been saved.
A plate beneath the periosteum gently lifts the membrane, triggering new blood vessel growth through the bone. No bone is cut. Device removed at bedside after ~21 days.
A small bone window is transported across the tibia using an external frame, triggering powerful angiogenesis to restore circulation. Effective when bypass isn't an option.
Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic amputation in the United States. But new procedures are changing the equation.
Both work by triggering your body to grow new blood vessels — restoring the circulation your wounds need to heal.
A small plate is placed beneath the periosteum — the living membrane on your shin bone. The plate gently lifts it, triggering your body to grow new blood vessels through the bone. Then the device is removed at bedside.
A small window of bone is cut from the shin and slowly moved using an external frame. This controlled movement triggers powerful angiogenesis — new blood vessels form to restore circulation to ischemic tissue.
Here's what the journey looks like — from the moment you decide to fight for your limb.
If you've been told you need an amputation, see a limb-salvage specialist. Many patients discover options they were never told about.
Your specialist evaluates your circulation, wound, and overall health to determine if PD, TTT, or another approach is right for you.
A device is placed on your shin bone. Over several weeks, it triggers your body to grow new blood vessels — restoring blood flow your wound needs.
New circulation reaches your foot and wounds begin closing. Most patients see significant healing within 3 months. You keep your leg.
These procedures help many patients who've been told nothing else can be done. While only a specialist can confirm candidacy, here are the signs to look for.
Important: This information is educational and does not constitute medical advice. Only a qualified limb-salvage specialist can determine if these procedures are appropriate for you. The most important step is scheduling a consultation.
Real patients who chose to fight for their limbs.
Surgeons and practices performing periosteal distraction and transverse tibial transport. Search by ZIP code to find the nearest specialist, or search by name, city, or state.
Are you a surgeon performing limb-salvage procedures? We're building the most comprehensive directory of specialists. Contact us to be listed. This directory is continuously updated as more surgeons adopt these procedures.
What patients and families want to know.
Yes. Both procedures restore blood flow by triggering angiogenesis — the growth of new blood vessels. PD achieved 90% wound healing; TTT has 95% limb salvage rates. They aren't for every patient, but for many facing amputation, they offer a real path forward.
Periosteal distraction has received FDA 510(k) clearance. TTT uses standard external fixation components that are also FDA-cleared. Both are performed by trained surgeons in hospital or outpatient settings.
Both restore blood flow through distraction-induced angiogenesis. PD lifts the periosteum without cutting bone. TTT cuts a small bone window and transports it across the tibia. Your specialist will recommend the best option for your situation.
Coverage varies. Since amputation and its lifelong consequences are far more costly, many insurers recognize limb-salvage procedures. Your doctor's office can help verify coverage.
The device is in place for 3–8 weeks depending on the procedure. Most patients see wound improvement within weeks, with full healing at 3–6 months.
These procedures are relatively new in the U.S. Bring this information to your appointment and ask for a referral to a limb-salvage specialist. You have the right to a second opinion.
Performed under anesthesia. During distraction, adjustment is less than 1 mm/day — most patients tolerate it well. Many say chronic wound pain was far worse.
Look for orthopedic or podiatric surgeons with training in limb reconstruction or Ilizarov techniques. Our directory (launching soon) will help you find qualified specialists near you.
If you or someone you love has been told amputation is the only option, take the first step. A second opinion could change everything.
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