Description Cut of the ear. The...
Description
Cut of the ear. The injury can involve only the skin or be more complicated injuring the underlying cartilage. If the cartilage is damaged it will need to be repaired to achieve the best cosmetic appearance.
Symptoms
Pain, bleeding, deformity of the ear.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional testing will depend on the severity and extent of the laceration.
Specialists:
Emergency Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Urgent Care Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional testing will depend on the severity and extent of the laceration.
Specialists:
Emergency Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Urgent Care Medicine
Treatment
Treatment may include simple cleaning and bandaging of the laceration or repair with sutures ("stitches"). If the cartilage is involved, absorbable sutures are placed in the cartilage to repair the defect. Complicated ear lacerations may require plastic surgery. Ear lacerations should be repaired within 12 hours to prevent infection. While waiting for treatment, the laceration can be cleaned with running water and covered with gauze or a clean cloth. Pressure on the wound can be applied to stop bleeding. If the bleeding is profuse, seek medical attention right away. A tetanus vaccination may be recommended, depending on when the last vaccination was received.