Leech Therapy (REL-ACU-0-CE193-60)

Course overview

Leech therapy has a long tradition but fell out of favor because scientists proved that blood loss was not therapeutic. The popular use of leeches did not return until the development of techniques for microvascular surgery. Many microvascular operations failed because of venous congestion or inadequate blood drainage from the reattached or transplanted tissue. Unless this congestion is relieved, blood clots form and cut off blood flow into the reattached tissue, with the tissue eventually dying. Leeches raised for medicinal purposes can help with decreasing this congestion until new venous drainage is established. This educational activity will update your knowledge about the use of this therapy and help you in supporting patients undergoing this treatment.