A world-first AI tool made in Melbourne could help save the limbs of people living with diabetes.

Researchers have developed a handheld camera that gives doctors better intelligence to intervene before it’s too late.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: World-first AI camera could prevent diabetic amputations

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For thousands of Australians with diabetes, a small wound can become life-changing. Every year, diabetic foot ulcers lead to infection, hospitalisation and, in many cases, amputation.

Like 56-year-old father-of-two George Diamataris, who lost his leg after an 18-month struggle with an infected sore.

“Before and during the amputation, I thought, you know, what am I going to be able to do afterwards?” he said.

George Diamataris. Credit: 7NEWS

Now, Australian researchers have developed a breakthrough technology able to predict from the very first appointment whether a wound is likely to heal.

It analyses heat patterns and skin textures invisible to the human eye, helping doctors identify high-risk patients and treat them before irreversible damage is done.

“Limb amputation can reduce a person’s life expectancy for up to 19 years. It has an impact on themselves, on their family. It’s a huge thing to be able to prevent limb loss,” Professor Elif Ekinci from the University of Melbourne said.

The technology is currently being tested in clinics across Victoria. Researchers are now seeking TGA approval to make the technology global.

“In many parts of the world, this technology is going to be potentially revolutionary,” Professor Dinesh Kumar from RMIT University said.

The technology analyses heat patterns. Credit: 7NEWS

Experts say this could be especially valuable in remote areas, where specialist care may be hundreds of kilometres away and every day counts.

“This particular device will be something which anyone, any clinician without any training can use quickly without any wet labs,” RMIT University Professor Kumar said.