American Society of Hirudotherapy

Medicinal Leech Therapy: Friend or Foe

Research article published in Plastic surgical nursing : official journal of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Nurses (2016)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Research reportClinical TrialsSpear M · Plastic surgical nursing : official journal of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Nurses, 2016

Abstract

Leech therapy is the ancient practice of bloodletting or bloodsucking and is considered one of the oldest medical practices known. Its use has spanned centuries and is still used in plastic surgery practices today when performing free flaps and replants. The purpose of this article is to discuss the history of this ancient therapy and to describe the leech and its present indications, complications, contraindications, and techniques.

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

Publication typeHistorical ArticleJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsHistory, 15th CenturyHistory, 16th CenturyHistory, 17th CenturyHistory, 18th CenturyHistory, 19th CenturyHistory, 20th CenturyHistory, AncientHistory, MedievalHumansLeeching

Summary

Leech therapy is the ancient practice of bloodletting or bloodsucking and is considered one of the oldest medical practices known. Its use has spanned centuries and is still used in plastic surgery practices today when performing free flaps and replants.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This article discusses the history of leech therapy from its ancient origins through its continued use in modern plastic surgery, specifically in free flap and replant procedures. It describes the leech and reviews present-day indications, complications, contraindications, and techniques. For ASH's domain, this article provides a historical and practical overview of hirudotherapy, documenting both the longevity of the practice and its specific contemporary clinical applications in surgery. As a historical article, the work is descriptive in scope and does not present new experimental findings, quantitative data, or systematic analysis of outcomes; its value lies in contextual background rather than serving as a source of current mechanistic or clinical evidence.

Citation

Medicinal Leech Therapy: Friend or Foe.

Spear M · Plastic surgical nursing : official journal of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgical Nurses, 2016

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.