What would be the time frame for a diabetic who needs foot amputation: is it an emergency?

Each case different: When your doctor recommends amputation it is typically time to do so. Physicians will use this as a last resort. Not doing the amputation can become life threatening due to gangrene and septic shock.

Infection or pain: Amputation may be urgent if there is an active infection (wet gangrene) or uncontrolled pain. Gangrene could become life threatening in a diabetic patient due to the impaired blood flow and impaired immune system.

Sometimes: In case of an uncontrolled infection the amputation may need to take place right away.