American Society of Hirudotherapy

Institutional Outcomes in Leech-Assisted Microsurgery — 87 Patients

Single-institution retrospective analysis of leech therapy in reconstructive microsurgery

Last Updated: March 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Clinical TrialsSafety & Infection ControlCornejo A et al. · Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, 2017

Summary

Retrospective analysis of 87 patients treated with medicinal leeches for venous congestion after microsurgical reconstruction at a single institution. Evaluates salvage rates, infection incidence, and the effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis protocols in a real-world clinical setting.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

Provides institutional-level outcome data complementing the Whitaker systematic review, demonstrating how standardized protocols translate into consistent clinical results in a high-volume reconstructive surgery center.

Citation

Institutional Outcomes of Leech Therapy for Venous Congestion in 87 Patients

Cornejo A et al. · Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, 2017

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: March 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.

Institutional Outcomes in Leech-Assisted Microsurgery — 87 Patients | ASH