Auricular hematoma
Background
- Separation of perichondrium from underlying cartilage tears the adjoining blood vessels
- Subperichondrial blood collection -> increased cartilage growth -> cauliflower ear
Treatment
- Evacuate the clot
- Make semi-circle incision inside the inner curvature of the helix or antihelix
- Remove hematoma by gentle suction or curettage
- Prevent re-bleeding
- Pack the helix w/ petroleum jelly-impregnated gauze
- Place regular gauze both in front of and behind the ear
- Circle the head with a compressive wrap
- Antibiotics
- Only indicated for immunocompromised patients
- Cover pseudomonas and S. aureus
Disposition
- Discharge
Source
- Tintinalli