Sociedad Americana de Hirudoterapia

Leech therapy for venous congestion following myocutaneous pectoralis flap reconstruction

Nursing review published in ORL Head Neck Nurs (1995)

Última actualización: June 18, 2026Revisado por: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Research reportEnsayos clínicosAdams JF, Lassen LF · ORL-head and neck nursing, 1995

Abstract

Medicinal leech therapy is recorded as early as 200 B.C. to treat everything from mental illness to headaches. The medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis) is used today as a successful treatment for venous congestion following replantation or transplantation of tissue. This paper discusses specific leeching properties, indications for use, nursing care and expected outcomes of leech therapy.

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

Publication typeJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsEdemaHumansLeechesPatient Care PlanningPatient DischargeSurgical Flaps

Resumen

Nursing-focused review of medicinal leech indications and care for venous congestion following pectoralis myocutaneous flap reconstruction.

Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia

This paper discusses the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis) as a treatment for venous congestion following replantation or transplantation of tissue, covering specific leeching properties, indications for use, nursing care, and expected outcomes. The article is relevant to ASH's domain as it addresses practical aspects of hirudotherapy in a surgical reconstructive setting. However, the abstract is descriptive and does not report specific patient data, sample sizes, quantitative outcomes, or any particular surgical procedure, limiting its evidentiary value for clinical decision-making.

Citación

Leech therapy for venous congestion following myocutaneous pectoralis flap reconstruction.

Adams JF, Lassen LF · ORL-head and neck nursing, 1995

Contexto clínico relacionado

Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026

Este sitio web proporciona información educativa y no constituye consejo médico, diagnóstico ni recomendaciones de tratamiento. La terapia con sanguijuelas medicinales conlleva riesgos clínicamente significativos y debe ser realizada únicamente por profesionales calificados bajo protocolos aprobados institucionalmente. La autorización 510(k) de la FDA para sanguijuelas medicinales se limita a indicaciones específicas; las discusiones sobre uso investigativo y fuera de indicación se señalan correspondientemente. Para orientación médica específica, consulte a un profesional de salud calificado.