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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Treatment options for ear hematomas in dogs and cats

By MacPhail, Catriona·Published in The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice·2016·Department of Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Current Treatment Options for Auricular Hematomas.

Plain-English summary

A dog with ear problems, like frequent head shaking or scratching, can develop a painful ear swelling called an aural hematoma. Treatment options include using medications like corticosteroids, draining the fluid with a needle, or performing surgery. The best approach often depends on the underlying cause of the ear issues. If the root problem is treated effectively, the chances of the hematoma coming back are low.

People also search for: dog ear swelling treatment · why is my dog shaking his head · aural hematoma surgery for dogs

Abstract

Ear disease, such as otitis externa, resulting in aggressive head shaking or ear scratching, is the most common cause of the development of aural hematomas in dogs and cats. An underlying immunologic cause has also been proposed to explain cartilage and blood vessel fragility. Numerous options exist for management of aural hematomas, from medical management alone with corticosteroids, to simple hematoma centesis, to surgical intervention. Because this condition is usually secondary to another disease process, regardless of mode of treatment, likelihood of recurrence is low if the underlying condition is managed properly.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27012935/