Startup Developed Internal Device to Prevent Amputations
A new internal device aims to treat limb-threatening diabetes complications without external frames.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Diabetes
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Baltimore-based startup BlueHealer is developing an internal device for Tibial Transverse Transport surgery, a procedure used in 10 countries to improve blood flow in the legs. This technology seeks to reduce the risk of non-traumatic amputations for the 150,000 Americans who undergo them annually.
Why it matters
Diabetes and arterial disease often restrict leg blood flow, creating severe amputation risks that disproportionately affect Black patients and less affluent individuals. By replacing external frames with an internal device, developers hope to provide a safer alternative that minimizes infection and fracture risks.
Tibial Transverse Transport is currently performed in over 10 countries to address limb-threatening arterial blockages. The efficacy and safety profile of an internal device versus traditional external framing systems remain under investigation as the technology moves toward market competition.
The players
BlueHealer
A Baltimore-based medical startup developing internal surgical hardware to improve blood flow and prevent limb loss.
Johns Hopkins University
A leading academic research institution where early-stage development of the bone-transport process occurred.
The details
Tibial Transverse Transport involves surgically cutting and moving a section of the tibia to stimulate blood flow in patients with severe vascular disease. While external frames are traditionally used to manage this bone movement, they carry significant risks of pin-site infection and fractures. BlueHealer is designing an internal device to perform this mechanical repositioning, which is intended to streamline the recovery process while mitigating the complications inherent to external hardware.
Timeline
In 2024, cofounders pitched the Tibial Transverse Transport process at Johns Hopkins University.
In September 2026, Foot and Ankle News labeled the procedure a gold rush.
Health Landscape
Tibial Transverse Transport currently serves as an alternative approach for patients facing limb loss due to vascular complications. The introduction of an internal device represents a technical evolution in how surgeons manage bone-induced blood flow stimulation compared to current standard-of-care external frames.
If you or a loved one are living with diabetes and face concerns regarding circulation or limb health, these developments are worth discussing with your primary care physician or a podiatrist. Understanding your specific risk factors for amputation can help you and your medical team prioritize preventative vascular care.
The takeaway
Advancements in surgical hardware are working to address the high incidence of non-traumatic amputations caused by chronic conditions like diabetes. Patients are encouraged to track circulation changes and consult a physician about the latest limb-preservation strategies.
Further reading
For more context on managing vascular complications, see our Diabetes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Technical.
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