Aural Hematoma

Aural Hematomas are soft swellings that appear on the dogs ears. They occur when a dog rapidly shakes its head due to the discomfort of an ear infection, mites, etc. Bleeding occurs within the cartilage of the ear flap, causing the swelling. Almost every pet will either be holding the head to one side or will be shaking and pawing at the affected side. These are rarely painful to the dog, but many hematomas need to be surgically opened to remove the blood clot. If it is left untreated, the clot will dissolve on its own, but the ear will appear disfigured for life.

With a mild case, a needle can be inserted into the affected area and alleviate the hematoma by removing the fluid and injecting cortisone into the ear. The dog will also need oral medication to be used for 10 days. This treatment is usually repeated in one week, although some cases are healed after the first week of therapy. Pets that don't heal after the second treatment need surgical correction.

Some vets are able to use a laser to perform the surgery-by using the lazer there is less pain for the dog after the surgery, and the healing time is greatly increased. With any type of surgery for your pet, they will always need to be monitored to be sure that they do not paw at the area or keep shaking their head (since that is what caused the problem in the first place).