“Dr. Armstrong is an inspiring leader who, through his passion and boundless energy, encourages us all to work together on behalf of our patients.” – Dr. Douglas W. Jones
October 9, 2024 – The American Limb Preservation Society (ALPS) proudly congratulates our founding president, Dr. David G. Armstrong, on his groundbreaking achievement as the first podiatric surgeon to be appointed as a Visiting Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. This appointment not only reflects Dr. Armstrong’s pioneering contributions to limb preservation and surgical innovation but also represents a significant step forward in the recognition of podiatric surgery within the broader medical community.
During his visit, Dr. Armstrong explored the University of Massachusetts’ Limb Preservation Program, a leading initiative directed by Dr. Douglas W. Jones, Associate Professor of Surgery and Vascular Surgeon. Hosted by Dr. Jones and Dr. Andres Schanzer, Cutler Distinguished Chair and Professor of Surgery, the visit provided an opportunity to exchange ideas on expanding access to limb-saving care. Discussions focused on innovative approaches in vascular surgery, tissue engineering, and integrating technology to improve patient outcomes and reduce preventable amputations.
“We were thrilled to host Dr. Armstrong at UMass as our 3rd annual Limb Preservation Visiting Professor, hosted by the Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. I had the opportunity to visit Dr. Armstrong at USC in 2020 and was extremely impressed with his tireless efforts to expand and adapt the toe-and-flow model,” said Dr. Jones. “Dr. Armstrong speaks with a clear, experienced voice, communicating the primary importance of collaboration. His Grand Rounds presentation was well-attended by specialists across the medical system, both in-person and virtually. As is always the case for him, his presentation was a lot of fun for everyone.”
Left to Right: Douglas Jones, MD MS; Caitlin Sorensen, MD; Dejah Judelson, MD; David G. Armstrong, PhD, DPM, MD; Tammy Nguyen, MD PhD; Jessica Simons, MD MPH; Andres Schanzer, MD
Dr. Armstrong also expressed his excitement over the potential impact of this collaboration: “I am deeply honored to serve as the first podiatric surgeon Visiting Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. The Limb Preservation Program at UMass is at the forefront of innovation, and I’m excited by the collaborative potential to enhance access to life-saving care for patients worldwide.”
Dr. Jones added, “He likes to joke that ALPS is like a dating app for medical specialists who are invested in limb preservation, but it is truly a team effort, so building the community is essential. Dr. Armstrong is an inspiring leader who, through his passion and boundless energy, encourages us all to work together on behalf of our patients.”
ALPS CEO Georgia Krehbiel, MBA, emphasized the broader significance of this appointment: “This collaboration between leaders in vascular and podiatric surgery sets the stage for future interdisciplinary initiatives in limb preservation. It perfectly aligns with ALPS’ mission to eliminate preventable amputations over the next generation. Partnerships like these are crucial for advancing the field and ensuring that innovative, limb-saving care is accessible to all.”
Dr. Armstrong’s achievement highlights the growing recognition of podiatric surgery as a key component of multidisciplinary limb preservation efforts. As ALPS continues to lead the fight against preventable amputations, this milestone reinforces the organization’s commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and improved patient care. Together, we are moving closer to a future where no one loses a limb unnecessarily.
For more information, contact:
Annkathrin Mathe
Email: alpslimb@gmail.com
About Professor David G. Armstrong
David G. Armstrong, DPM, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Surgery and Neurological Surgery at the University of Southern California and a co-founder of the Southwestern Academic Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA). He is one of the world’s foremost experts in diabetic foot care, having authored over 700 peer-reviewed research papers and 110 books or book chapters. His work has been cited more than 77,000 times, reflecting his significant contributions to the field. Professor Armstrong remains committed to eliminating preventable amputations and continues to lead advancements in research, clinical practice, and advocacy.