Clinical orthopaedics and related research
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Digits that were formerly assessed as nonreplantable may now be replanted with the help of the leech Hirudo medicinalis. The early experience with a series of patients who had relative contraindications for replantation is reported. In each case, venous repair was either marginal or technically impossible. ⋯ Patient acceptance was high, and no infections developed. No patient required transfusion. The authors conclude that the use of medicinal leeches shows promise as a safe and effective method of providing temporary venous drainage in replanted digits.