Circulatory dysfunction is the leading cause of lower limb amputation in developed countries. The primary cause is atherosclerosis, though up to one-third of patients also have diabetes. These people are typically in their sixth decade (or older), and the majority have additional health issues that limit their ability to walk. Every year, approximately 5000 new major amputations are performed in the United Kingdom. It is in stark contrast to developing countries, where the majority of amputations are caused by trauma related to either conflict or industrial or traffic accidents.