Introduction

An auricular hematoma is defined blood collection between the cartilage and the skin of the pinna.

Objectives

The records of 53 cases of dogs and cats presented in the Companion Animal Clinic of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki with an aural hematoma treated with Penrose drainage were reviewed.

Methods

Data collected include signalment, concurrent disease, treatment, post-surgical complications and long- term outcome.

Results

Common canine breeds represented were 16 mixed breed, 10 GSDs and 3 French bulldogs. Four cats were DSH and one was a Persian. Mean age of the dogs was 7.6 years and of the cats was 5 years. Three cats and 31 dogs were male, while 2 cats and 17 dogs were female. Otitis externa was diagnosed in 23 dogs and 3 cats and skin disease was diagnosed in 11 dogs and 1 cat. All dogs and cats had a Penrose drain placed within the hematoma cavity. Recurrence of hematoma was reported in 7 dogs and 1 cat. Those animals were treated with revision drainage of the hematoma and placement of a new Penrose tube. Pinna deformation was diagnosed in 14 dogs and 2 cats. No signs of hematoma were reported after a follow up time of 3.5 years for dogs and 4.5 years for cats.

Conclusions

Penrose drain placement is an effective technique for the management of aural hematoma in dogs and cats but recurrence may be seen in 15% of the animals. Recurrence is effectively managed with a new Penrose tube placement.