External Ear Conditions (Pinna Haematoma)

What is Pinna Haematoma?

Pinna haematoma is a collection of blood between the cartilage and the covering perichondrium. Trauma is the usual cause. Contact sports such as boxing, rugby and soccer are commonly associated with this condition.


Symptoms and Signs

There is swelling of the ventral aspect of the pinna, generally located at the superior part although any portion can be involved. Unless very tense, the swelling is not very tender or warm to the touch.


Management

The principle in the treatment is to remove blood collection. This can be done either by aspiration or incision and drainage. The latter is more commonly employed as it gives better results although the former is easily performed in a clinic setting. Once teh blood has been evacuated, firm dressing or sutures are used to keep the skin and perichondrium in contact with the cartilage. This is important to prevent re-accumulation of blood. Unless infected, antibiotics need not be prescribed.


Complications

"Cauliflower ear" results from secondary organization of a residual blood clot or devascularization of cartilage and can be cosmetically deforming.