Deion Sanders' Tragic Health Issue Leads to Toes Amputation: What Happened?
Deion Sanders lost his two toes after needing amputation during his surgery.
Sanders' fans are now tuned in to an upcoming documentary series that will reveal what happened to the NFL legend before, during, and after the amputation.
On Tuesday night, the new episode of his "Coach Prime" documentary series on Barstool Sports will detail the severity of his foot injury and why it caused him to be hospitalized for a month.
ESPN shared a sneak peek ahead of the episode's scheduled release, saying that the Jackson State head coach sustained a dislocated toe and an inflamed nerve. Sanders already received an initial procedure in September before ultimately returning to the field using a golf cart and crutches.
Despite his injury, he assisted his team with the help of a push scooter.
When he thought he was already on the mend, the NFL Hall of Famer noticed that his toes began to turn darker in color while they were wrapped with bandages.
What Happened to Deion Sanders?
Following his hospitalization, Sanders received advice that he needed to receive another surgery that could lead to amputation.
"They were talking about the amputation of toes. Then they talked about the amputation of my leg from the knee down. Then, they were trying to ensure I had life," he said.
The 54-year-old was diagnosed with three femoral blood clots, and his doctors warned him it could be life-threatening. In the end, he lost his big toe and second toe on his left foot. He also lost 35 pounds during his stay in the medical facility.
As reported by USA Today, Sanders' blood clots began at his calf before running in his whole leg. This caused compartment syndrome to develop. Per NHS, the potentially serious condition is usually caused by bleeding or swelling within a bundle of muscles. The compartment eventually increases, restricting the blood flow to the area and damaging the muscles and nerves nearby.
The shocking news about the surgery prompted him to call his mother. During his conversation with the matriarch, he learned that their family has a history of blood clots-related diseases.
Although he lost his two toes, Sanders expressed his gratitude to people who helped -- and still helping - him every day.
"It's been a long journey. I am on the road back," he said. "But I am here and I am thankful."
