Q: Can varicose veins lead to amputation?

A: Poor circulation is a rather vague term that includes arterial problems and venous problems. Arterial disease leads to reduced flow of the blood carrying oxygen and nutrients down the leg to the tissues. Venous disease causes poor flow of blood carrying cellular waste back up the leg to the heart. The severe lack of arterial blood bringing oxygen and nutrients can cause tissue death, which can lead to amputation. Poor venous flow does not pose this risk.