Avoid amputation through early detection – how a Durban Vascular Surgeon endeavours to save limbs

Dr Sindiswa Ntloku, a leading vascular surgeon, emphasises early intervention to save limbs and improve patient outcomes with amputations. Amputation has become a significant health concern in South Africa, with rising cases mostly driven by complications from chronic and lifestyle-related diseases. Vascular surgeon, Dr Sindiswa Ntloku based at the Ethekwini Lenmed Hospital and Heart Centre said that early intervention and knowledge are imperative in order to reduce the risk of limb loss.

One of only a few female vascular surgeons in KwaZulu-Natal she deals with blood vessels from the head to the toe, excluding the brain and heart. Her work involves creating vascular access for dialysis in those with kidney failure and treating patients who have suffered strokes and those who battle with varicose veins. Ntloko was driven to pursue a limb preservation fellowship in Canada after seeing a number of patients lose their limbs because they sought medical help too late. Her fascination with medicine stemmed from her grandmother who was a nurse and Ntloko went on to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor at the Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine (UKZN), graduating MBChB.