By what mechanism do leeches help to salvage ischaemic tissues? A review
Mechanism review published in Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg (2005)
Abstract
The therapeutic use of leeches in medicine dates back to 50 b.c. and was cited by ancient authors. The medicinal leech, Hirudo medicinalis, has been used with increasing frequency during the past few years by reconstructive surgeons to help salvage ischaemic tissues. We aim to summarise the anatomy, physiology, and pharmacological mechanisms of action of leeches to provide reconstructive surgeons with a theoretical basis for their use.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Mechanism-focused review summarizing leech anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology — providing a theoretical foundation for the use of medicinal leeches in salvage of ischemic tissues.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
This review aims to summarize leech anatomy, physiology, and pharmacological mechanisms of action to give reconstructive surgeons a theoretical basis for using Hirudo medicinalis to salvage ischaemic tissues. It notes that therapeutic leech use dates back to antiquity and that Hirudo medicinalis has been used increasingly by reconstructive surgeons for ischaemic tissue salvage. This is directly relevant to ASH because it addresses the rationale and proposed mechanisms of therapeutic leech use. The caveat is that the abstract states only the review's aim and historical context; it provides no specific new results, clinical outcomes, or original trial data.
Citación
By what mechanism do leeches help to salvage ischaemic tissues? A review.
Whitaker IS et al. · The British journal of oral & maxillofacial surgery, 2005
Contexto clínico relacionado
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 26, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026