American Society of Hirudotherapy

Leeches in the intensive care unit: nursing care

Research article published in Enfermeria clinica (2007)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Research reportClinical TrialsSafety & Infection Controlde Los Mozos-Prez B et al. · Enfermeria clinica, 2007

Abstract

Leeches have been used in medicine since ancient times. Leeches or Hirudos were used to treat multiple diseases, since the bleeding they induce was related to purification. This practice subsequently fell into disuse until the 1980s when leeches again began to be applied in the treatment of venous congestion and in plastic and reconstructive surgery, especially in the USA and Germany. The use of leeches is not yet widespread in Spain. One of the Spanish hospitals pioneering this practice is the University Hospital Joan XXIII de Tarragona, where leeches are employed in the Maxillofacial Service among patients with microvascularized grafts. The present article describes the therapeutic use of leeches (Hirudo medicinalis), as well as the nursing care and complications in patients undergoing this treatment. The aim is to ensure that this new technique is used with maximal safety and quality.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeEnglish AbstractJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsHirudo medicinalisHumansIntensive Care UnitsLeechesNursing CareSurgery, Oral

Summary

Leeches have been used in medicine since ancient times.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This article describes the therapeutic use of medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) in a Spanish university hospital's Maxillofacial Service, detailing nursing care protocols, complications, and safety considerations for patients with microvascularized grafts. It is directly relevant to ASH's domain as a clinical practice report on hirudotherapy applied to venous congestion in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The abstract notes that leech therapy fell into disuse before resurging in the 1980s, and emphasizes ensuring maximal safety and quality. However, this appears to be a descriptive practice article without controlled trial data or quantitative outcomes; the abstract provides no comparative efficacy results, limiting its evidentiary value.

Citation

Leeches in the intensive care unit: nursing care

de Los Mozos-Prez B et al. · Enfermeria clinica, 2007

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 27, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.