United Kingdom
A female asked:
how long does it take for dry gangrene to become life threatening if untreated in foot?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. John Fung answered
General Surgery 39 years experience
Limited risk per se: Dry gangrene begins at the distal part of the limb due to ischemia (lack of blood supply) and often occurs in the toes and feet of elderly patients due to arteriosclerosis (from arterial occlusion). There is limited putrefaction and bacteria fail to survive. This is usually indicative of more generalized peripheral vascular disease and as such, the life expectancy of such patients is limited.
4220 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Joey Bluhm answered
General Surgery 17 years experience
Seconds: Dry gangrene is dead tissue that can easily become infected and lead to life threatening sepsis and death. You should see a physician immediately to treat dry or wet gangrene.
4220 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Similar questions
A 45-year-old member asked:
Does hitting your foot way too hard cause you to get gangrene if you're diabetic?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Jeffrey Kass answered
Podiatry 28 years experience
If you have : Poor circulation it is possible.
5070 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 33-year-old member asked:
Need doctor's help! will occur fournier gangrene in the foot?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in

Dr. Arnold Beresh answered
Podiatry 41 years experience
Need more info: Not sure what you are asking.
4733 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Sri Lanka
A 22-year-old male asked:
Why do Diabetic patients develop gangrene in foot?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

A Verified Doctor answered
A US doctor answered Learn more
Ischemia: Blockage of small arteries cutting off blood supply by the diabetic process (intracapillary inflammation)
3783 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Last updated Aug 1, 2018
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