A NEW OPERATIVE TECHNIQUE FOR AURAL HAEMATOMA IN DOGS: A RETROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY

Aural haematoma is treated either by surgical or by conservative treatment. Both techniques usually require several interventions and re-checks. A new operation technique has been evaluated that requires only a single procedure but is as effective as the techniques used previously. The haematoma is opened, cleaned surgically and the two layers of the auricular cartilage are appositioned inside with several suture lines placed on both sides of the incision, alternating the sides approaching to the sagittal cavity. None of the suture lines is stitched through the auricle completely as they all run intradermally on the side of the haematoma and to the cartilage on the other side. Twenty-three dogs with aural haematoma were treated between 2006 and 2012. In 21 (91%) of them, the haematoma healed without any auricle deformity. No secondary intervention was necessary in any of the cases. None of the 23 animals experienced a relapse during follow-up. The new method offers a minor risk of postoperative complications while accomplishing high healing rates.