

The bleeding continues until the pressure created by the pooling blood equalizes with the pressure from the arteries themselves. The hematoma is sandwiched between pieces of cartilage that have been forced apart by the pressure of the blood accumulating from the ruptured vessels. The source of the hematoma is rupture of the branches of the caudal auricular artery that penetrate the auricular cartilage (1). The otitis can then cause the animal to shake its head violently, damaging the auricular cartilage and forming a hematoma. The surgery for an aural hematoma involves a vet making a small incision to open and then drain the blood blister. Irritation to the ear, such as inflammation, immune-mediated diseases, allergies, parasites, trauma and foreign bodies, can result in otitis externa. The extra weight of the blood in the earflap may be uncomfortable and may alter the way the ears are carried. Depending on the severity of the hematoma, swelling can be extensive and may occlude the opening of the ear canal. The symptoms of an aural hematoma are often obvious they include swelling on the inside of the pinna, holding the head to one side and shaking or pawing at the affected ear. Fibrosis can ultimately result in the pinna assuming a curled-up conformation often called 'cauliflower ear' (1). Hematomas are initially soft but become firm and thickened over time as a result of fibrosis. Hematomas can occur very quickly, within a few minutes of a vessel rupturing.

The pressure of accumulated blood in an aural hematoma is often painful, and it prevents the tissue from remaining in apposition. The surgery entails the veterinarian making a small surgical incision in the ear flap. Your vet will also treat the underlying issue causing the hematoma (e.g. In this column, I discuss surgical treatment of aural hematomas in the dog. Aural hematoma surgery is a permanent solution for your pets problem, and having hematomas surgically removed can reduce scarring.
Aural hematoma surgery skin#
Blood fills the space between the skin and the cartilage, causing pain and potential deformity of the ear. Without surgical correction, it could take a couple of months for the hematoma to resorb. Back to top Recovery With surgical correction, healing is expected in 2-3 weeks. Ear (aural) hematomas occur when blood vessels in the pinna rupture secondary to trauma or excessive head shaking. If surgery is required, the cost may be 500 or more depending on the size of the pet and severity of the hematoma.
