George Testimonial
A multidisciplinary approach leads to healing and limb preservation for George
Revascularization and wound care
Alexandria area resident George Harte, 89, is a prime example of the benefits that come from Inova’s comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to vascular care and the vital role wound healing plays in outcomes that patients value most, particularly for those at risk of limb loss.
George spent 36 years as an electrical engineer with Western Electric Company, assigned to Bell Laboratories, helping to build anti-ballistic missile systems and stealth systems on submarines working with some of the pioneers of the computer age. Although he is long retired, he continues to spend time working with computers, building them from component parts and helping his neighbors when they run into computer trouble. When poor circulation began to threaten his leg and foot, George was at risk of limb loss – until he connected with the limb preservation and wound care team at Inova. George has diabetic neuropathy. In February 2024, an ulcer on his foot led to cellulitis, which obscured a second ulcer between his toes. Although his toe was treated with sutures and a skin graft, the toe’s blood flow was not strong enough to enable healing amputation was recommended.
“It was a real shock. My wife and I were unprepared for the announcement that we were preparing for an amputation,” George recalled. “I was concerned that amputating this toe would lead to more amputations, and I would eventually lose my foot or lower leg.” He consulted with a longtime friend who is an Indiana-based wound care podiatrist, as well as his own son, who works for a skin graft company. His friend and son told George that it could be possible to save the toe – if he found physicians with the right expertise. That’s when George’s son reached out to Richard Neville, MD, Schar Chair, Vascular Surgery; Associate Director, Inova Schar Heart and Vascular; and Chief of Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine at Inova. Dr. Neville leads Inova’s Limb Preservation Program, a multidisciplinary effort that brings together vascular surgery and wound healing to improve blood flow, reduce symptoms, improve function and reduce the risk of amputation.
“As a complication of diabetes, the blood flow to George’s foot had been compromised, leading to ulcers and infections,” Dr. Neville said. “The first step was to partner with Inova Wound Healing Centers to develop a multidisciplinary treatment plan that, we hoped, would lead to healing and save his limb.”
Inova Wound Healing Centers – multidisciplinary partners in healing Dr. Neville collaborates closely with the team at Inova Wound Healing Centers, the largest and most comprehensive program in the region for nonhealing wounds, services include:
- Comprehensive wound assessments
- Advanced wound dressings
- Negative pressure wound therapy
- Bioengineered skin substitutes
- Debridement
- Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) theraрy
Dr. Neville connected George with wound healing expert Philip Garrett, DPM, who was ready to move forward with wound healing therapies once blood flow was restored. To revascularize and improve that blood flow to George’s foot and toes, Dr. Neville recommended bypass surgery because his disease was too complex for angioplasty which had been tried and failed. On October 3, 2025, George underwent the successful bypass from the popliteal artery to a small artery on the top of his foot (dorsalis pedis). Once blood flow had been improved, Dr. Garrett was able to resect part of the bone, enabling blood and the antibiotics George was taking to reach the bone.
“Between the vascular surgery and the resection, I healed. It saved my toe, and today, I don’t have any problems with it,” George said.
When it came time to discuss treatment plans, George and his wife met with Dr. Neville for nearly two hours.
“Dr. Neville is one of the best doctors I’ve ever had. Each time I went to see him, he had reviewed every other doctor’s notes and was up to date on my overall care. He was very patient, very knowledgeable, and he really came across as someone who cared. I’ve never had a doctor give me an hour and 45 minutes before.” George’s advice for physicians George learned two lessons from his experience:
1. The team at Inova Wound Healing Centers does life-changing work
2. Healthcare providers should refer more patients there, early and often
“The average patient doesn’t have a son who works for a skin graft company and a friend who is a wound care podiatrist,” he notes. “If I hadn’t gotten connected with Dr. Neville and Dr. Garrett, I’d be sitting here with fewer toes and a lot worse outlook. Inova Wound Healing Centers is a referral resource that more providers should make use of. They saved my toe.” Diabetic complications are among the most significant risk factors that can lead to amputation when not well managed. In fact, about 60% of all nontraumatic lower limb amputations but it can also are increase related the to diabetes. risk Not only does limb loss significantly affect daily life, lifespan. of additional health problems and may even decrease with “Estimates early show that about 85% of all diabetes-related amputations can be prevented risk of intervention and specialized treatment,” said Dr. Neville. “At Inova, those at limb loss have access to the most comprehensive, highly specialized care through expert team. not only our vascular surgery team but also the Inova Wound Healing Centers’ The earlier we see patients, the more options we can offer.”
Erin W.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 07/01/23
I’ve seen Dr. Garrett twice for plantar fasciitis, and he was very effective, professional, and pleasant to deal with both times. Got me from hobbling in pain to living my life again! I can’t recommend this practice enough.
Kathryn Z.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/22/23
Always friendly and professional staff and Doctors. I have the utmost confidence and respect for Dr. Garrett.
Christopher M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/15/23
Prompt, professional service. Examined my wound, provided medical advice and guidance, scheduled follow up two weeks later.
Scott H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/03/23
Great care and follow up.
Bouchra D.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 04/28/23
Dr Garett was very nice and efficient
Patricia B.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 04/26/23
Excellent. The office staff is very kind and efficient. Dr. Garrett answers any concerns I have and he takes good care of my feet and toenails. I would recommend him to anyone for treatment/care. Patricia Beardsley
Sue C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 04/20/23
My husband and I have been cared for by Dr Garrett for many years. His ability in surgeries and overall care is outstanding in all ways.I highly recommend him for all foot and ankle problems.
Dorothy S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/28/23
Very responsive.
Christine H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/22/23
From the time I walked in until I walked out, I was treated exceptionally well by the friendly, professional and excellent staff. I wish Dr. Garrett was an every kind of doctor. My feet are in very good hands and they feel great!! Thank you!
Jeanne C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/14/23
Quick diagnosis and helpful recommendations on supportive sneakers.
Mark L.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/05/23
I have been seeing Dr. Garrett for nearly 15 years. Great demeanor and great treatment plans.
Nancy M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/04/23
Excellent diagnosis, excellent manners, and skilled surgeon. Thanks for fixing my foot.
Asia M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/01/23
Was kind straight to the point.
Sheila H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/24/23
Painful but him and the staff was very caring!
Robert B.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/24/23
This office is very well organized.
Claudius G.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/24/23
The service was very helpful, because I needed to be prepared for intense activity for the 7 to 10 days following the visit.
Stephen G.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/23/23
Very efficient!
Elise L.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/14/23
Dr Garrett was able to address three separate issues on my first appointment in a concise and complete manner. I was pleased to have my concerns understood.
Ben B.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/01/23
I really like Dr. Garret. He takes the time to help me understand what is going on and what the options are for treatment. So far with several foot issues he has advised the right treatment so they will get better.
Gifty S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 12/28/22
Dr Garrett is a friendly doctor. He made me feel at ease. The nurses there are also friendly. Thank you so much for taking care of me.
Karen S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 12/26/22
Staff are welcoming when you check in. Virtually no wait in the waiting room. Dr Garrett is professional and excellent at what he does.
Jim A.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 12/22/22
What a great doctor and staff ! I travel 120 miles each way, just because its worth it ! Everyone at the front desk is so friendly, and as crazy busy as he always is, Dr. Garrett always takes the time to explain the procedure to me. There is none better out there ! Thank you. Jim Amery
JOAN M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 12/14/22
Exemplary care….
Lillie D.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 11/17/22
professional, informative, and reasurring
Caroline C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/27/22
Friendly and efficient staff and Dr Garrett provided a good diagnosis and treatment.
Gary N.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/27/22
Great
Anastasia J.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/26/22
Dr. Garrett is always on time. He is friendly and efficient and carefully explains your problem and how to take care of it.
Sharon O.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/24/22
On time, friendly, informative appointment!
Michele H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/12/22
Provider was thorough, knowledgeable, and listened to my concerns. Visit was good. Would recommend to others.
Ainsley O.
4/5 Star Rating
Submitted 09/27/22
Great experience,, arrived early, greeted very polite, the waiting room was very clean. Dr. Garrett was polite and addressed my conerned professionally
Charlie F.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 08/25/22
Excellent service, easy to discuss your injury and next steps.
Laura L.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 08/25/22
As usual, Dr. Garret took care of my problem and offered good advice.
JAMES K.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 08/03/22
Quick diagnosis of my foot pain, and quick treatment plan. Great at setting expectations and explaining everything. Overall great experience.
Betho V.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 08/02/22
I received excellent care fro! Dr. Garrett who resolved my foot issues.
Shannon L.
4/5 Star Rating
Submitted 06/26/22
Dr. Garrett is great. He always answers my questions and explains things well. He’s pleasant, although sometimes I feel like he’s a bit rushed.
Linda D.
3/5 Star Rating
Submitted 06/20/22
The first cortisone shot in my left foot was quite effective. Unfortunately the shot in my right foot was not. Still dealing with a lot of pain. I don’t blame my Dr.
Charles T.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 06/07/22
Great
K. O.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 06/07/22
Dr. Garrett always is caring, efficient and professional.
Leonard W.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/31/22
Seemed friendly, confident Doc. Went back to Garrett as he’s my regular,
Patricia O.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/19/22
I am chuckling that you have to ask this. Dr.’s care was/is great and the office staff is wonderful. I am so glad I was told about Landmark Foot and Ankle.
K H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/05/22
Fixed my problem.
Rakesh P.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 04/10/22
Dr. Garrett was amazingly kind and answered all my questions. He presented all options to me and worked with me ensure I was making the best choice. I would visit again if I had any foot related issues.
John J.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 04/09/22
On time, thorough and complete appointment. All my questions were answered.
Doyle C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/31/22
Appointments are always friendly, professional and procedures well done.
John M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/30/22
Professional!
Jimmie N.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/09/22
Excellent skills in trimming a troublesome nail. He is skilled and extremely knowledgeable.
Frederica D.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/03/22
Excellent care.
Miyoko M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 03/03/22
He was very informative and helpful and kind to answer all my questions.
Donald K.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/25/22
It was great!
Robert F.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/24/22
First visit. Amiable & competent.
Carole H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/21/22
Regular 3 month check – visit went very well and any questions I had were answered in a manner that was easy to understand.
Tsion A.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/19/22
He addressed my issues directly and answered my questions efficiently.
Gail T.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 02/18/22
Dr. Garrett is a phenomenal podiatrist! He explains every detail of your diagnosis and prescribes treatment options before recommending surgery. I have been his patient for over 10 years. Dr. Garrett is an excellent physician!
Sue C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 12/29/21
I always find the care given me by Dr Garrett and his staff to be excellent. Dr Garrett over some years has been able to make the needed corrections on my feet that have created return to comfort and for that I am very grateful and thankful. I highly recommend his work.
Debra K.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 12/07/21
Always good
Nelson S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 11/20/21
Great service and lots of experience
Alice And Jesse S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 11/04/21
Excellent
Cathy M.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/24/21
Staff is friendly and helpful Dr answers questions in understandable explanations aggressive in treatment i like that
Tom E.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/22/21
Dr Garret took great care of me and my foot issues!
Joan T.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/13/21
I came for plantar fasciitis shots, brought mom for first diabetic toenail cutting! Excellent doctor , friendly and competent staff!!
Larry S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/12/21
Very pleased with service and staff. Received expert care in timely manner.
Chuck A.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/07/21
Thank you Dr. Garrett for taking care of years old problem!!! I’ve been self doctoring my ingrown toenail for years and thanks to you it is gone now.
Russ C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/07/21
Left foot pain above the arch. Dr Garrett assessed it as a strained tendon and suggested a boot and shoe inserts
Kevin J.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/06/21
Great as usual
Chris H.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/06/21
Very professional from start to finish! Dr. Garrett is very knowledgeable, offers many options to resolve an issue and is very personable!
Joe C.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 10/06/21
Complete faith in Dr. Garrett.
VIRGINIA S.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 07/23/21
Dr. Garrett always explains his plan of treatment to remedy your problem. He is highly skilled and has the best bedside manner of any doctor I’ve known. His surgical environment is 1st class and his surgical team is the best. His office staff are pleasant and very professional.
Eric E.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 06/18/21
Dr. Garrett put forth some heroic efforts in assuring that I was able to retain all 10 toes. He is a master of his craft and his staff is both knowledgeable and friendly. He performed two surgeries on my foot and both experiences went seamlessly. I owe much to Dr. Garrett; he has a “never give up” attitude and keeps abreast of all podiatric advances. As I moved from the area, I am, sadly, no longer a patient but I will forever be indebted to Dr. Garrett for saving my digits.
Tom E.
5/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/11/21
Really worked to find my problem.
James B.
3/5 Star Rating
Submitted 05/08/21
Great as usual
