Medicinal leeches used to salvage a traumatic nasal flap
1998; Elsevier BV; Volume: 36; Issue: 6 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1016/s0266-4356(98)90465-x
ISSN1532-1940
AutoresB.W. Mortenson, Kenneth H. Dawson, Craig S. Murakami,
Tópico(s)Leech Biology and Applications
ResumoWe report a case in which medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) were used to rescue a traumatic nasal flap from venous congestion and loss. A healthy 18-year-old had a bicycling accident and, in addition to other facial injuries, presented with a complex full thickness nasal laceration. After he had been resuscitated and the flap sutured, he was treated with two leeches four times a day for 48 h. His recovery was satisfactory and uncomplicated. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons should be familiar with the use of leeches, as they have a small but occasionally important role in the management of both traumatic and reconstructive flaps.
Referência(s)