American Society of Hirudotherapy

Successful microvascular replantation of a completely amputated ear

Case report published in Microsurgery (1993)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportClinical LiteratureRapaport DP et al. · Microsurgery, 1993

Abstract

A case of successful microvascular replantation of a traumatically amputated ear is presented. The postoperative course was complicated by venous thrombosis requiring the use of medicinal leeches and systemic heparinization for salvage. This is the tenth successful microvascular ear replantation reported in the literature.

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

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAdultAmputation, TraumaticAnimalsEar, ExternalHeparinHumansLeechesMalePostoperative ComplicationsReplantationThrombosis

Summary

This report describes the tenth successful microvascular replantation of a fully amputated ear. Venous thrombosis complicated recovery and was salvaged with medicinal leech therapy combined with systemic heparinization.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This case report presents successful microvascular replantation of a traumatically amputated ear, complicated postoperatively by venous thrombosis that was managed with medicinal leeches and systemic heparinization. The authors identify this as the tenth successful microvascular ear replantation reported in the literature. This is a single case report, the lowest level of clinical evidence, and leech therapy was used as part of a combined approach with systemic heparinization. No details regarding leech therapy parameters, duration, or associated complications are provided in the abstract.

Citation

Reference (Vancouver style)

Rapaport DP, Breitbart AS, Karp NS, Siebert JW. Successful microvascular replantation of a completely amputated ear. Microsurgery. 1993;14(5):312-314. doi:10.1002/micr.1920140505. PMID: 8332050

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

DOIPubMed

Added to ASH library: May 26, 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.