Leech Therapy as a minimal invasive procedure in facial subcutaneous hematoma - A Case Report
Abstract
Reported case acts as a reminder of an important therapeutic lesson and proves the effectiveness of Jalaukavacharan i.e. medicinal leech therapy from Ayurveda science in the case of hematoma. Jaulaukawacharan is one of the Anushastrakarma procedures explained in Sushruta samhita, which can be said to be minimal invasive parasurgical procedures. In present case a 46 year female patient presented with the complaints of pain, discolouration and swelling on left sided cheek region since 15 days with history of local blunt trauma. She was treated with conservative management at local hospital but swelling not reduced completely and symtoms persisted, she was advised surgical drainage of the same as second line of management.. As patient doesn’twant the postoperative scar and pain of surgery she approached Shalya Tantra OPD of our Ayurveda institution for alternative treatment. After examination it is diagnosed as subcutaneous hematoma and confirmed as complex cyst in subcutaneous fat of molar region of left cheek s/o hematoma of size 11x8x8 mm by Ultrasonograpy. As Jaulaukawacharan is indicationed for local application in conditions with hematogenous, deep seated pathologies,and its scarless aftereffect and clinically and research proved results of its secretions like Hirudin,Gelin and Destabilase which has properties like anticoaugulent, antifibrotic,anti-inflammatory and analgesic, it was decided to do leech therapy in present case. After primary treatment of antibiotics and blood investigations leech therapy is advised.Outcome after three sittings proved thesurgical aspect of Ayurvedaas hematoma and its symptoms subsided completely without any scar.