American Society of Hirudotherapy

Microvascular replantation of a traumatically amputated ear

Case report published in Archives of otolaryngology--head & neck surgery (1996)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportClinical TrialsFunk GF et al. · Archives of otolaryngology--head & neck surgery, 1996

Abstract

We describe the replantation of a traumatically severed auricle using microvascular anastomosis to reestablish blood flow to the ear. Microvascular reattachment of the severed auricle occurred 10 hours after the trauma. Postoperatively, adjunctive measures, including anticoagulation and the use of medicinal leeches, were used to relieve venous congestion of the replanted auricle. The replanted auricle healed completely with 100% survival, resulting in an essentially normal-appearing external ear. In the management of a traumatically severed auricle, microvascular replantation should be considered as the intervention of first choice in selected cases. If the procedure is successful, the cosmetic results are excellent; if it is not successful, a number of other reconstructive techniques remain as options.

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

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAdultAmputation, TraumaticAnimalsAnticoagulantsEar, ExternalGraft SurvivalHumansLeechesMaleMicrosurgeryPostoperative CareReplantation

Summary

We describe the replantation of a traumatically severed auricle using microvascular anastomosis to reestablish blood flow to the ear.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This case report describes the microvascular replantation of a traumatically severed auricle, reattached 10 hours after trauma using microvascular anastomosis. Postoperatively, adjunctive measures including anticoagulation and medicinal leeches were used to relieve venous congestion of the replanted auricle, which healed completely with 100% survival and an essentially normal-appearing external ear. This is relevant to ASH's domain as it documents the use of medicinal leeches to manage venous congestion in a microsurgical replantation setting. Caveat: This is a single case report; the individual contribution of leech therapy versus surgical technique or anticoagulation to the successful outcome cannot be isolated from the report.

Citation

Microvascular replantation of a traumatically amputated ear

Funk GF et al. · Archives of otolaryngology--head & neck surgery, 1996

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.