Ear Hematoma

Patient: “Atticus”                              

Age: 5 years

Breed: Domestic Shorthair

Sex: Neutered Male

                                               "Atticus" before surgery.

What is an Ear Hematoma? An ear hematoma is a localized mass of blood, serum, or a blood clot within the ear flap. Ear hematomas need to be treated as soon as possible or permanent damage may occur. They can occur in both dogs and cats.

How is it caused?  Shaking or scratching the ears due to an infection or bite wounds are the most common cause of an ear hematoma. A hematoma occurs when a blood vessel in the ear bursts and bleeds into the space between the skin and the cartilage.

What is the treatment?  Most ear hematomas are treated with surgery. This involves incising and draining the hematoma and suturing or bandaging the ear to help future recurrence.

What follow-up treatment is needed?  Recheck appointments will be needed to remove or change bandage. Suture removal will also be done at a recheck appointment. If an infection was present, it will be necessary to recheck the ear to make sure the infection has cleared up.