Ear Hematoma

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

An aural hematoma is when the space between the cartilage and the skin on the ear fills with blood. 

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

Ear hematomas occur when blood vessels in the ear bursts and bleeds into the space between the ear cartilage and skin. This is most commonly associated with the following:

• Shaking the head due to an ear infection
• Shaking or scratching at ears excessively due to insect or parasite bites on ears
• Trauma occurring on the ears or head

Dogs with floppy ears that shake there are most likely to develop hematomas because the ears are hitting the side of the head causing the blood vessels to rupture and leak out into that space between the skin and cartilage.     

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

The most obvious sign or symptom of an ear hematoma is the appearance of the ear.  It will be “blown up” like a pillow or a large blood blister. 

• Scratching or rubbing the ears and head
• Redness or swelling of the ear flap or canal
• Excessive shaking of the head or tilting it to one side
• Pain around the ears and head.
• Aggressive behavior when head and ears are touched.
• Head tilt

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

A diagnosis will be made by a gross examination of the ear.

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

Treatments for hematomas involve a minor surgical procedure.  Under sedation, an incision is made on the inside of the ear flap allowing the blood to drain, then your veterinarian will suture the skin together in a fashion that will help prevent the area from filling up with blood again.

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

The surgical repair of a hematoma will help to prevent the occurrence.