Experience with pharmacologic leeching with bivalirudin for adjunct treatment of venous congestion of head and neck reconstructive flaps

ConclusionsBivalirudin is a safe and feasible adjunct therapy for treatment of flap congestion. It may serve as a useful alternative to traditional leech therapy, as bivalirudin negates the need for antibiotic prophylaxis, eliminates the psychological aversion associated with leech therapy, and avoids the potential for leech migration. Further work to determine the efficacy of bivalirudin to standard leech therapy is warranted.

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/resolve/doi?DOI=10.1002%2Fmicr.30298

Source: Microsurgery - January 1, 2018 Category: Surgery Authors: Aisha Harun, Rachel M. Kruer, Andrew Lee, Kofi Boahene, Patrick J. Byrne, Jeremy D. Richmon Tags: CLINICAL ARTICLE Source Type: research