A Case Report of Prolonged Hemorrhage Following Traditional Phlebotomy (Fasd)

Abstract

Phlebotomy, a therapeutic method of bloodletting typically performed using a needle, has a traditional technique known as “Fasd.” In this method, blood is extracted by creating a longitudinal incision on a vein (3-5 mm) with a surgical scalpel blade, usually blade No. 11. Due to the incision in the vessel wall, establishing hemostasis is more challenging compared to conventional methods. Hemostasis is usually achieved within minutes after Fasd. We present a case highlighting an uncommon yet significant complication of traditional phlebotomy. A 55-year-old man with no prior medical conditions underwent traditional phlebotomy at an academic traditional medicine clinic. Senior MD-PhD students in Iranian Traditional Medicine, under professor supervision, performed Fasd. A sterile scalpel blade No. 11 was used to create a longitudinal incision of approximately 4 mm on the patient’s median basilic vein in the right hand. After removing 400 cc of blood, a pressure dressing was applied to the incision site. Despite attempts such as hand elevation, ice pack application, prolonged direct pressure, and tight elastic bandaging, bleeding from the incision persisted. After an hour of supportive therapy, hemostasis was eventually achieved within a few minutes using burnt cotton dressing (a traditional method for blood hemostasis). Following intravenous hydration, the patient was discharged in stable condition and reported no issues during the one-month follow-up. The traditional phlebotomy (Fasd) carries the risk of serious complications, including uncontrolled and prolonged bleeding. Further research on the efficacy and safety of burnt cotton dressing for controlling hemostasis is recommended.

Keywords

• case report
• phlebotomy
• hemorrhage
• persian medicine
• burnt cotton