American Society of Hirudotherapy

Medical leech therapy in plastic reconstructive surgery

Research article published in Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) (2015)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Research reportClinical TrialsHouschyar 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

The use of Hirudo medicinalis in clinical practice has increased in recent years. The primary indication in plastic surgery has traditionally been venous congestion.

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. This is directly relevant to hirudotherapy and ASH's domain, as it 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

Medical leech therapy in plastic reconstructive surgery.

Houschyar K et al. · Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946), 2015

DOI

Added to ASH library: March 18, 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.