Why are frostbite amputations increasing in Edmonton?

Increased frostbite amputations in Edmonton are linked to factors including the loss of shelter space and a lack of adequate extreme weather protocols, disproportionately affecting the homeless population.

What is iloprost and how does it help frostbite patients?

Iloprost is a medication used off-label to treat severe frostbite by dilating blood vessels, showing promising results in reducing the need for amputations in clinical studies.

How do Edmonton and Calgary differ in their cold weather responses?

Edmonton's extreme weather response is activated below -20 C for three days, while Calgary's operates from December to March, offering broader continuous support.

Home / Health / Edmonton's Frostbite Crisis: Amputations Soar Amidst Homelessness

Edmonton's Frostbite Crisis: Amputations Soar Amidst Homelessness

15 Dec

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Summary

Edmonton frostbite amputations increased over five times since 2019.
Over half of frostbite amputations in Edmonton are for homeless patients.
A new drug shows promise in reducing frostbite amputations.

Edmonton is facing a significant increase in frostbite amputations, with numbers more than five times higher than in fiscal 2019. A striking majority of these procedures, over 50 percent, are performed on individuals experiencing homelessness. This trend highlights the critical impact of cold weather on vulnerable populations and the ongoing challenges of housing insecurity.

While Edmonton sees a sharp rise, Calgary has experienced a decrease in frostbite amputations for three consecutive years. However, Calgary also reports a higher proportion of amputations among its homeless population. Medical professionals are investigating treatments like iloprost, a medication that dilates blood vessels and has shown a reduced risk of amputation in studies.

Concerns are mounting over Edmonton's extreme weather response policy, with critics arguing its activation threshold is too high. A review of this policy is underway, aiming to incorporate best practices and input from frontline providers and those with lived experience. Efforts are also being made to provide transitional housing through programs like Bridge Healing to aid recovery and prevent re-injury.