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How Leeches are used in Modern Surgery | Earth Science
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How Leeches are used in Modern Surgery | Earth Science

The Modern Use of Leeches in Surgery

Historical Context and Surgical Application

  • Leeches have been utilized for thousands of years to treat various ailments, including skin diseases and fevers, although their effectiveness is questionable.
  • In contemporary medicine, leeches are being used as surgical assistants, particularly by reconstructive surgeons like Ian Whitaker.

Specific Uses in Reconstructive Surgery

  • Leeches are primarily applied on extremities such as fingers, noses, or ears during reattachment surgeries.
  • The process involves micro-surgery where blood flow is restored through arteries; however, managing venous blood flow remains challenging.

Mechanism of Action

  • Leeches can consume a predictable amount of blood and promote bleeding after removal, which aids in surgical recovery.
  • A leech's feeding mechanism involves cutting through the skin with its mouth to access blood vessels.

Feeding Process and Biological Insights

  • The rhythmic contraction of a leech’s muscles allows it to suck blood efficiently through a process called peristalsis.
  • Leech saliva contains potent anticoagulants that prevent clotting, enabling prolonged feeding—typically lasting around 12 hours.
Video description

Michael Mosley finds out just how much blood leeches can consume and their importance to modern medicine. Subscribe to Earth Science: http://bit.ly/SubscribeToEarthLab Best Earth Science videos http://bit.ly/EarthLabOriginals Best of BBC Earth videos http://bit.ly/TheBestOfBBCEarthVideos The Doctors Are In The House http://bit.ly/TheDoctorsAreInTheHouse Best Of Earth Unplugged Videos http://bit.ly/BestOfEarthUnpluggedVideos Infested: Living With Parasites The connection between parasite and host is everywhere in nature. To reveal how this relationship works for both of us, Michael Mosley is going to systematically infect himself with six of the most extraordinary, powerful and surprising parasites of all. Welcome to BBC Earth Science! Here we answer all your curious questions about science in the world around you. If there’s a question you have that we haven’t yet answered let us know in the comments!