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. A drain tube will be placed in the ear flap to prevent build up of fluid while the ears heals.  Treatment of ear infections and/or ear mites is necessary to allow healing and prevent recurrence of the conditions that caused the hematoma.

1. 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.
2. Sutures:

The drain will be removed in 7-10 days. This can be done without sedation or discomfort to your pet.  Your pet needs to return in approximately 14 days for suture removal. Back|Contents|Forward