A man is suing a health board after claiming he had both his legs amputated unnecessarily.
Lawyers for Aberdeen pensioner Walter Watson say NHS Grampian did not give him appropriate treatment for his ulcers before opting to remove his two limbs in 2013.
Mr Watson, 69, had the operation after he was admitted with an infection.
NHS Grampian said doctors “do their utmost” to prevent patients reaching the point where amputation is required.
Mr Watson told BBC Scotland: “It’s bad enough losing your legs but to think you didn’t need to, that really is a bitter pill.
“This happened to me completely out of the blue as far I was concerned. I had no idea I was going to lose my legs. It was just a daily horror from then on.
“There are so many things you can’t do. I was looking forward to my retirement. It’s gone. I can’t have any retirement. I’m very restricted where I can go.”
Thompsons Solicitors, representing Mr Watson, said he attended several outpatient appointments before becoming seriously ill with an infection.
They said they have obtained reports from two independent experts which say that other treatments should have been tried before the amputation.
Solicitor Nicola Kelly said: “What happened to Walter is a tragedy. Can you imagine what it must be like to have this sort of operation but to also know that the amputation was avoidable? It is just beyond belief.
“Our medical experts are quite clear: if a different course had been followed by doctors, this amputation need not have happened.
“Walter and his family deserve proper answers from the NHS about his appalling treatment and a proper compensation settlement so he can receive the best ongoing care for the rest of his life.”
A spokeswoman for NHS Grampian said: “We can confirm legal action is under way, as such it would be inappropriate to comment on this specific case.
“Speaking generally, we recognise amputation is a traumatic and life-changing procedure.
“We do our utmost to prevent our vascular patients reaching the point where amputation is necessary.
“NHS Grampian is unusual in that we offer smoking cessation support within the outpatient service.
“If amputation is the only option, we are absolutely committed to returning the patient to an independent life. Rehab visits take place in the home prior to the procedure taking place.
“In-patients spend a minimum of three months on the ward following surgery; during this time they receive intense physiotherapy and occupational therapy support.
“We are confident that we offer a high standard of care to our patients.”