The University of Kansas Health System is treating a total of 34 COVID patients today, 39 yesterday. Other significant numbers:

• 24 with the active virus today, 24 yesterday
• 5 in ICU, 6 yesterday
• 1 on a ventilator, 1 yesterday

Key points from today’s guests:

Dr. Adam Alli, vascular interventional radiologist, The University of Kansas Health System

• Every three minutes someone loses a limb to diabetes per the American Diabetes Association… the cause is blood flow issues.
• Major amputations above the ankle greatly increase morbidity, so saving limbs is saving lives.
• The importance of diabetic control is essential in maintaining health.
• The smaller the blood vessels, the more potential for build-up and blockages.
• To prevent amputations, they use a special device that “sands” the plaque to open up blood vessels.
• This is a very difficult procedure, but with the right tools and the right team, it is very successful.

Richard Pywell, patient

• Richard is a long-time diabetic and his issue started with a blister on his foot.
• That foot ended up not getting enough blood to heal properly and he had to have a toe amputated.
• It could have led to a limb amputation, but Dr. Alli helped save his leg.

Larry Byrum, patient

• His issues also started with a blister that would not go away, which lead to removal of three toes and the potential to lose his entire leg below the knee.
• He was referred to Dr. Alli, who saved his leg.
• Larry was able to have both his arteries and veins treated and he felt a huge difference in blood flow and energy afterward.

Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection prevention and control, The University of Kansas Health System

• A new report found that online “patient influencers” are actually paid endorsers.
• It is important to disclose that information when sharing information.
• Be careful of non-medical influencers sharing medical information online.

Friday, March 24 is the next Morning Medical Update. What does a new government rule for mammograms mean for women?

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