This Podcast Will Kill You

Ep 142 Leeches: It’s more powerful than magic, it’s nature

Jun 11, 2024
Discover the surprising resurgence of leeches in modern medicine, revealing their unique saliva packed with healing powers. Enjoy humorous anecdotes about chaotic leech therapy mishaps and dive into the fascinating biology of these creatures. Learn about their unexpected roles in plastic surgery and historical practices like bloodletting. With a mix of fear and fascination, the hosts weave in playful discussions, making leeches both relatable and intriguing. This journey into the world of leeches is sure to leave you both entertained and enlightened!
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ANECDOTE

Leeches in Plastic Surgery

  • A patient severed their thumb in a machinery accident, requiring reattachment and leech therapy.
  • Miscommunication led the patient to believe venomous snakes would be used, causing distress.
INSIGHT

Leeches: More Than Meets the Eye

  • Leeches are segmented worms, mostly parasitic, with three jaws containing numerous teeth.
  • Their saliva has over 100 bioactive substances, making them medically valuable.
INSIGHT

The Magic of Leech Saliva

  • Leech saliva contains hirudin, an anticoagulant that inhibits thrombin, a key enzyme in blood clotting.
  • Their saliva also has other compounds that prevent platelet aggregation and dissolve clots.
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