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 the cartilage or overlying skin from vigorous repeated head shaking or scratching at the ears with the back feet. Occasionally the damage results from the ear striking a solid object during head shaking.
The most common underlying causes of head shaking are ear infections, ear mites, and fleas.
Important Points in Treatment
1. In most instances, general anesthesia is necessary for withdrawal of the hematoma fluid and surgical repair.
2. Treatment of ear infections and/or ear mites is necessary to allow healing and prevent recurrence of the condition that caused the hematoma.