HEMATOMA OF THE EAR FLAP

General Information:

Hematoma of the ear flap is an accumulation of blood between the cartilage and skin of the ear flap. It is caused by damage to blood vessels of the ear from vigorous repeated head shaking, or scratching at the ears with the back feet. Occasionally the damage results from the ear striking a sharp edge during head shaking. The most common underlying causes of head shaking are ear infections, ear mites and fleas.

Treatment Information:

In most instances, general anesthesia is necessary for removal of the hematoma fluid and surgical repair. Treatment of ear infections and/or ear mites is necessary to allow healing and prevent recurrence of the conditions that caused the hematoma.

Medications:
Your pet may be discharged with oral antibiotics to prevent infection in the ear flap after the surgery. If a mite infestation, and\or an ear infection are noted then your pet will also be discharged with a topical antibiotic ointment\solution and an ear cleaning solution.
Use all medications as directed for the specified time length.
Sutures:
Your pet needs to return in approximately 14 days for suture removal.

We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to e-mail us.

David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC