American Society of Hirudotherapy

Replantation of an avulsed ear, using a single arterial anastamosis

Case report published in J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg (2007)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportClinical TrialsO'Toole G et al. · Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery, 2007

Abstract

Avulsion of the ear is relatively uncommon and replantation a technical challenge. A case in which an avulsed ear was successfully replanted using a single arterial anastamosis is described. The surgical difficulties encountered, the pharmaceutical approach to postoperative care and the problems which resulted from the lack of venous drainage are discussed.

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

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAmputation, TraumaticAnastomosis, SurgicalEar, ExternalHumansLeechingMaleMicrosurgeryMiddle AgedPostoperative CarePostoperative HemorrhageReplantation

Summary

Microvascular ear replantation in middle-aged male performed with arterial anastomosis only, with medicinal leech therapy and systemic anticoagulation.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This case report describes the successful replantation of an avulsed ear using a single arterial anastomosis, with discussion of the surgical difficulties, pharmaceutical postoperative care, and problems resulting from absent venous drainage. The abstract does not mention leeching, leeches, or hirudotherapy at any point. No defensible connection to ASH's domain of hirudotherapy or the leech secretome can be drawn from the abstract text alone. Caveat: this is a single case report focused on microsurgical technique and postoperative management; any relevance to leech therapy would require information not present in the abstract.

Citation

Replantation of an avulsed ear, using a single arterial anastamosis.

O'Toole G et al. · Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery, 2007

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.