American Society of Hirudotherapy

Microsurgical complications in the upper extremity

Narrative review published in Hand clinics (2010)

Last Updated: November 1, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewClinical LiteratureSafety & Infection ControlShores J, Andrew Lee W · Hand clinics, 2010

Abstract

Although many advances have been made in microsurgery, it is not without complications. As microsurgeons continue to make advances in technology, technique, and applications that expand the utility of this field to more and more patients, they must be prepared to deal with the complications related to donor and recipient sites and the medical comorbidity that accompanies these large endeavors in the pre-, post-, and intraoperative periods.

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

Publication typeJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAmputation, TraumaticAneurysmComorbidityFinger InjuriesGraft Occlusion, VascularGraft SurvivalHumansIntraoperative CareLeechingMicrosurgeryNo-Reflow PhenomenonPostoperative CarePostoperative ComplicationsPreoperative CareReplantationSmokingSurgical FlapsUpper ExtremityVenous Thrombosis

Summary

Although microsurgical advances expand the field's utility, this review examines complications of upper-extremity microsurgery at donor and recipient sites and the accompanying medical comorbidity across preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care.

Context

This article discusses complications encountered in microsurgery, covering issues related to donor and recipient sites as well as medical comorbidities that accompany major surgical procedures across pre-, post-, and intraoperative periods. The abstract provides a general overview of the complications microsurgeons must be prepared to manage as the field expands, without detailing specific complication types or management strategies. The abstract contains no mention of leeching, hirudotherapy, or any leech-related content.

Citation

Reference (Vancouver style)

Shores JT, Andrew Lee WP. Microsurgical complications in the upper extremity. Hand Clin. 2010;26(2):291-301. doi:10.1016/j.hcl.2010.01.007. PMID: 20494754

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.