An ear hematoma, or aural hematoma, is a blood blister that develops on your pup's ear. Dogs with long, floppy ears prone to ear infections are particularly susceptible. Today, our Torrance vets explain more about ear hematomas and their treatment.
What is an ear hematoma?
An ear hematoma, also known as an aural hematoma, is a blood blister within the cartilage and skin of your dog's ear. These hematomas are often caused by self-inflicted trauma when a dog excessively scratches its ears.
However, other injuries or trauma to the ear can also lead to a hematoma. The trauma to the ear causes the small blood vessels in the ear flap (also known as the pinna) to break and leak, resulting in a swelling filled with blood.
This condition is frequently observed in dogs with chronic ear infections, which can cause dogs to scratch and paw at their ears frequently.
Dogs with long, floppy ears, those that spend much time in water, and those with untreated allergies that cause skin irritation are especially prone to ear infections.
What does a hematoma look like?
In the case of an ear hematoma, your dog's ear flap will appear swollen. In more serious instances, the entire ear flap may be affected, and the blood weight can cause the ear flap to sag or hang lower than usual.
Depending on their size and location, hematomas can feel firm or squishy. They are often painful, and your dog will probably not want to have its ear touched.
Dog Ear Hematoma Surgery
The best way to treat a hematoma is through a surgical procedure that has two goals: draining the hematoma and preventing it from forming again. A veterinarian will use a few techniques based on their preference, but the overall overview of the surgery is the same.
To begin with, the hematoma will be surgically drained, and any blood clots will be removed. Next, the vet will remove the empty or "dead" space in your pet's ear flap, filling with blood. This is done by putting numerous sutures through the ear to promote scar tissue formation and reattach the cartilage to the skin.
What to Expect After Dog Ear Hematoma Surgery
Recovery for a dog with ear hematoma surgery isn't bad, and most dogs will return to their head-shaking selves within two weeks.
While your pup may be sore for the first few days following surgery, your vet will give you pet-friendly medications and inflammation medicine to help. They will also provide antibiotics if needed.
Drainage tubes or bandages may be removed after anywhere from three to 14 days. In severe cases, some or all of the sutures may remain in place for up to two weeks if needed. Your veterinarian will prescribe medication before removal so that an infection doesn't develop.
Your vet will also tell you how to monitor and care for your pet while at home when to come back for rechecks, and to make sure everything is healing properly if some discharge does occur.
Lastly, you'll also receive an Elizabethan collar for your dog. This will prevent ear scratching, reduce the risk of inflammation bleeding, and prevent your dog from accidentally removing its sutures too soon! Most pets have a bandage on their head to help protect them and place gentle pressure.
What is the cost of an ear hematoma surgery on a dog?
Many pet parents are on a tight budget and ask us how much dog ear hematoma surgery costs. The truth is that veterinary surgery costs vary widely across the country.
The cost of your dog's surgery will be determined by factors including the size of your pup, how complicated the surgery will be to remove the hematoma, and where you live geographically.
To get an accurate estimate for your dog's surgery, speak to the staff at your veterinary clinic. Most vets are happy to provide a detailed breakdown of costs and answer any questions you may have.
Preventing Further Hematomas
Treating the underlying cause of your dog's ear irritation is important to prevent further hematomas. If the underlying cause is not addressed, your dog may continue to scratch and paw at its ears, which could lead to more complications.
It is important to follow up with your veterinarian so that they can perform the necessary diagnostic tests to determine the root of your pup's ear condition.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.