American Society of Hirudotherapy

Medical leech therapy in plastic reconstructive surgery

Narrative review published in Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) (2015)

Last Updated: November 1, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Research reportClinical LiteratureHouschyar K et al. · Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946), 2015

Abstract

The use of Hirudo medicinalis in clinical practice has increased in recent years. The primary indication in plastic surgery has traditionally been venous congestion. However, other reported clinical applications were in varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, and osteoarthritis. In this review, we summarize recent data elucidating the role that medicinal leeches play in the field of plastic surgery.

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

Publication typeJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsHumansLeechesLeechingPostoperative CarePostoperative ComplicationsPlastic Surgery ProceduresTreatment Outcome

Summary

This review summarizes recent data on Hirudo medicinalis leech therapy in plastic and reconstructive surgery, where venous congestion remains the primary indication, with additional reported applications in varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, and osteoarthritis.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This article summarizes recent data on the use of Hirudo medicinalis in plastic surgery, where the primary indication has been venous congestion, with other reported applications including varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, and osteoarthritis. The article consolidates knowledge about established clinical applications of medicinal leeches. As described in the abstract itself, this is a review summarizing existing data, and it presents no new original findings. The abstract provides no quantitative outcomes, patient numbers, or details on therapeutic protocols, limiting its contribution to a general overview of the field rather than new clinical evidence.

Citation

Reference (Vancouver style)

Houschyar KS, Momeni A, Maan ZN, Pyles MN, Jew OS, Strathe M, et al. Medical leech therapy in plastic reconstructive surgery. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2015;165(19-20):419-425. doi:10.1007/s10354-015-0382-5. PMID: 26297126

Bibliographic details (authors, volume, pages, DOI) are taken from the PubMed record.

DOIPubMed

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: November 1, 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.