The use of medicinal leeches in microsurgery
Research article published in Blood coagulation & fibrinolysis (1991)
Abstract
Medicinal leeches have been used to treat a variety of ailments for thousands of years. During the past decade the leech has become valuable for salvaging surgically uncorrectable venous insufficiency which is occasionally encountered after microsurgical free flap and replantation procedures. Leech anatomy and physiology are reviewed. Indications and the technique for application of medicinal leeches is discussed, as well as potential complications of leeching.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Zusammenfassung
The use of medicinal leeches in microsurgery.
Warum dies für die Hirudotherapie relevant ist
This historical review discussed the use of medicinal leeches over thousands of years for a variety of ailments and their contemporary role in microsurgery. The abstract notes that over the past decade, leeches have become valuable for salvaging surgically uncorrectable venous insufficiency encountered after microsurgical free flap and replantation procedures. The review covers leech anatomy and physiology, indications and technique for application, and potential complications of leeching. This article is directly relevant to the American Society of Hirudotherapy as it outlines clinical indications and practical methodology for therapeutic leeching in reconstructive surgery, providing a foundational overview for medical professionals.
Zitation
The use of medicinal leeches in microsurgery
Valauri FA et al. · Blood coagulation & fibrinolysis, 1991
Verwandter klinischer Kontext
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