Leech therapy
Research article published in The American journal of nursing (2009)
Abstract
Leech therapy is experiencing a resurgence in health care today, primarily in plastic and reconstructive surgery as a treatment for venous congestion, which can threaten surgical outcomes. Most nurses have had no formal training in administering the therapy or in maintaining Hirudo medicinalis, the species of freshwater worm used therapeutically. Yet nurses may be expected to participate in this therapy in a variety of clinical settings and can use these guidelines for the safe and effective use of the leech in treatment.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Summary
Leech therapy is experiencing a resurgence in health care today, primarily in plastic and reconstructive surgery as a treatment for venous congestion, which can threaten surgical outcomes.
Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy
This article presents guidelines for the safe and effective clinical use of Hirudo medicinalis in leech therapy, with particular attention to nurses who may be expected to participate in the therapy across various clinical settings despite lacking formal training in administering it or maintaining the leeches. It is directly relevant to hirudotherapy, as it addresses the contemporary resurgence of medicinal leech use—primarily in plastic and reconstructive surgery for treating venous congestion that can threaten surgical outcomes. The abstract indicates the article offers practical clinical guidance rather than original empirical research, quantitative outcomes, or mechanistic findings, and provides no specific data or results.
Citation
Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026