Tunneling of a leech into a free flap breast reconstruction
Case report published in JPRAS (2011)
Abstract
Leeches are well known to migrate over the surface of the treated tissues. At times, they can be located in remote locations once they become engorged and detach. We report the first case of a leech tunneling through a dermal bite wound on a breast free flap.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
First reported case of leech tunneling through a dermal bite wound on a free flap breast reconstruction. Highlights migration risk after engorgement and detachment.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
This case report describes what the authors state is the first documented case of a medicinal leech tunneling through a dermal bite wound into a breast free flap reconstruction, noting that leeches are known to migrate over treated tissue surfaces and can detach in remote locations once engorged. The report is directly relevant to hirudotherapy practice as it highlights an unusual but potentially serious mechanical complication of leech application. The limitation is that this is a single case report with no comparative or incidence data, and the abstract provides minimal clinical detail about management or outcomes.
Citación
Tunneling of a leech into a free flap breast reconstruction.
Flurry M et al. · Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS, 2011
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 26, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026