The historic city of Valletta hosted a transformative symposium on limb preservation and interdisciplinary care, co-chaired by Dr. Corinne Scicluna and Luke Saliba, President of the Association of Podiatrists of Malta (APM). This landmark event brought together leading clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals from around the globe to address the growing challenges in diabetic foot care and lower limb complications.
The symposium featured an array of distinguished speakers, including keynote presenter Professor David G. Armstrong, Professor of Surgery and Founding President of the American Limb Preservation Society (ALPS).
Dr. Armstrong’s keynote address, “Limb Preservation in Diabetes: A Marriage of Team, Technology, and Tenacity,” captivated attendees, highlighting the critical role of innovation and collaboration in reducing preventable amputations worldwide.
Luke Saliba, President of APM, remarked:
Professor Armstrong’s impact on limb preservation and interdisciplinary care has been unparalleled. He has likely influenced this field more than any other single clinician, setting new benchmarks for patient outcomes and inspiring us all to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Importance of interdisciplinary teams
Professor Kevin Cassar, a vascular surgeon and Professor of Surgery at Mater Dei Hospital, delivered a compelling talk detailing the remarkable impact of building interdisciplinary teams in Malta.
Once the country with the highest diabetes prevalence and amputation rate in the European Union, Malta has achieved the lowest amputation rate in the EU through dedicated efforts in team-building, technology, and patient-centered care.
Cassar’s presentation served as a powerful testament to the potential of unified, interdisciplinary approaches to transforming patient outcomes.
The event’s program included sessions on biomechanics, vascular surgery, mental health in wound care, and emerging technologies in diabetic foot management. Panel discussions emphasized the importance of holistic, person-centric approaches to patient care.
The symposium concluded with a resounding call to action, urging healthcare providers to leverage cutting-edge technologies and collaborative strategies to save limbs and lives. The overwhelming attendance underscored the global urgency and interest in combating the growing epidemic of lower limb complications.
Co-chair Dr. Corinne Scicluna, Senior Lecturer at the University of Malta, noted:
This symposium represents a pivotal moment for Malta’s healthcare community, as we continue to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthen our capabilities in limb salvage and diabetic foot care.
ALPS is proud to share yet another testament to our Founding President Dr. David Armstrong´s far-reaching influence and his pioneering work in preventing diabetic foot ulcers and reducing amputations, which has truly transformed limb preservation worldwide.