Description A deformity of the ...
Description
A deformity of the outer ear secondary to trauma. The injury causes bleeding and bruising in the soft tissue of the ear, and if this blood is not removed the ear can become permanently deformed with a shriveled appearance. The injury can also pull the skin away from the cartilage. The cartilage gets its blood supply from the overlying skin and the accumulated blood and pulling away of the skin can cause the cartilage to die resulting in scarring and the deformity seen.
Symptoms
Immediately after the injury the ear is swollen, with blood and bruising beneath the skin. Later after the cartilage has died the ear will appear pale, shriveled and deformed.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be done. Generally no other tests are needed.
Specialists:
Plastic Surgery, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical will be done. Generally no other tests are needed.
Specialists:
Plastic Surgery, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Treatment
The blood under the skin must be removed to enable the skin to contact the cartilage preventing the cartilage death. An incision is made to remove the blood, followed by a compression dressing. Prevention of the disorder can be achieved by wearing protective head gear while participating in sports.