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Canine Aural Hematoma

Ear hematomas, also known as auricular hematomas or aural hematomas, occur when blood accumulates in the flap (or pinna) of the ear.

Symptoms and Types

Ear hematomas are characterized by a swelling of the ear flap. In most cases, only one ear will be affected. However, it is possible for both ears to have hematomas. The swelling may involve the entire ear flap or it may cover only part of the ear flap.

Causes

The most common cause of an ear hematoma in dogs is an ear infection or other irritation within the ear. Ear infections cause irritation to the ear, resulting in shaking of the head which in turn causes the development of the hematoma.

Less commonly, allergic skin disease, immune disorders or blood clotting deficits can be the cause of ear hematomas.

Diagnosis

Ear hematomas are typically diagnosed by physical examination.

Treatment

Many different treatments exist for ear hematomas. The fluid within the hematoma can be drained but the hematoma is likely to recur and may need to be drained numerous times. Many veterinarians prefer to lance the hematoma and drain the fluid under anesthesia. In most cases, a drain is placed in the ear to keep additional fluid from building up within the ear flap or, alternatively, sutures or other devices may be placed through the ear flap to discourage additional accumulation of fluid and recurrence of the hematoma.

If ear disease is present, it will need to be treated simultaneously.

Prevention

Preventing ear infections is often effective in preventing ear hematoma formation. When ear infections do occur, they should be treated promptly to avoid the formation of a hematoma.