Leeches and Caudal Analgesia After Replantation for Glans Amputation During Neonatal Circumcision
Research article published in Urology (2022)
Abstract
Neonatal circumcision is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the world. As with all surgeries, it carries risks, including rare, but devastating complications, such as glans, and/or penile shaft amputation. Complete glans amputation with successful replantation has been previously reported. Herein we report a case of complete amputation at the penile midshaft in a 28-day-old neonate with a unique approach to postoperative care including the use of leech therapy, topical heparin, and caudal analgesia following successful microvascular replantation.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Summary
Peer-reviewed clinical and outcomes research relevant to medicinal leech therapy and its biology. Indexed in PubMed and verified against the NCBI record.
Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy
This case report describes complete penile midshaft amputation during neonatal circumcision in a 28-day-old infant, managed with successful microvascular replantation followed by a postoperative regimen that included leech therapy, topical heparin, and caudal analgesia. It is directly relevant to hirudotherapy as a documented adjunct for relieving venous congestion and supporting flap/replant survival, here in an exceptionally delicate neonatal genital reconstruction. Caveat: this is a single case report describing a rare complication and a combined treatment approach, so it illustrates feasibility in one patient and cannot, on its own, establish the independent efficacy or safety of leech therapy in this setting.
Citation
Leeches and Caudal Analgesia After Replantation for Glans Amputation During Neonatal Circumcision.
Mousa et al. · Urology, 2022
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