Gangrene

Gangrene refers to the decay and death of tissue resulting from an interruption in blood flow to a certain area of the body. It is caused by infection or ischemia, such as from thrombosis (blocked blood vessel). It is usually the result of critically insufficient blood supply (e.g., peripheral vascular disease) and is often associated with diabetes and long-term smoking. Gangrene can involve any part of the body; the most common sites include the toes, fingers, feet, and hands.

The best treatment for gangrene is revascularization (i.e., restoration of blood flow) of the affected organ, which can reverse some of the effects of necrosis and allow healing.