At Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic in McMurray, PA, we offer a wide variety of veterinary services. Our team cares for dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, birds, gerbils, reptiles, and ferrets. We provide full care, from wellness checks to vaccinations. One issue our trained veterinarians treat is aural hematomas.

What Is an Aural Hematoma?

An aural hematoma is a blood blister. This is a localized mass of blood within the cartilage and skin of the ear. It occurs as a result of scratching the ear, getting an injury, like a bite on the ear, or shaking the head, causing a blood vessel to burst and bleed into the space between the skin and cartilage. It is very common in dogs, especially those with long, flappy ears, and should be treated as soon as it is discovered to avoid permanent disfigurement.

A hematoma may be linked to allergies, parasites, immune mediated diseases, inflammation, foreign bodies, traumas from bites, and other injuries. If the underlying condition is not treated, the condition will keep recurring.

How Is an Aural Hematoma Treated?

At our animal hospital, our experts will diagnose and treat aural hematomas. Surgery is the most effective method to treat an aural hematoma. This involves anesthetizing the pet, then cutting the skin over the hematoma open, so as to drain any blood clots within it. The resulting empty space is then removed by suturing the ear to promote controlled formation of scar tissue, and the cartilage is re-attached to the skin. 

The ear flap is then supported by applying a bandage to the ear to hold it against the head and minimize further damage, therefore promoting fast healing. Any underlying problems will also be dealt with at this stage to ensure there is minimal chance of the hematoma recurring. 

Our vets will provide follow-up treatment, including removal of the bandages and sutures after the scar has healed. Some sutures may be left in for up to two weeks longer, especially in severe cases to ensure complete healing. Any discharge from the surgery sites should be cleaned with mild soap and water, and medication will be prescribed if an infection is present.

Visit Our Animal Hospital

Aural hematomas can be prevented by promptly dealing with conditions that result in irritation in the ears, which is better than treating a hematoma in the long run. Our team of well-trained veterinarians at Pleasant Valley Veterinary Clinic is always on hand to help with emergency or preventative cases and will provide you with fitting solutions to your pet's health problems. Serving patients in McMurray, PA, our veterinarians will make sure your pet stays happy and healthy. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, call us today.