Management of Acute Pinna Haematoma using Modified Nasal Splints

Case Report

Austin J Otolaryngol. 2015;2(5): 1045.

Management of Acute Pinna Haematoma using Modified Nasal Splints

Beegun I¹*, Fox R² and Ahmed TS³

¹Department of ENT Surgery, Royal Free Hospital, UK

²Department of ENT Surgery, Northwick Park Hospital, UK

³Department of ENT Surgery, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, UK

*Corresponding author: Issa Beegun, Department of ENT Surgery, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London,NW3 2QG, UK

Received: June 05, 2015; Accepted: June 22, 2015; Published: June 24, 2015

Background

Acute haematoma of the pinna refers to a collection of blood deep to the perichondrial layer of the pinna [1]. It is commonly caused by blunt trauma and if untreated will ultimately result in a deformity known as ‘cauliflower’ or ‘wrestler’s’ ear [1]. Various treatments have been described in order to relieve the haematoma and surgical drainage is often advocated. No consensus exists, however, on optimum management to minimise the possibility of haematoma recurrence [1].

We present a simple technique using commonly available materials that in our experience effectively prevents re-accumulation after surgical evacuation.

Case Presentation

Our case is that of a 36 year old healthy male who sustained an acute right pinna haematoma following blunt trauma to the ear during a play fight with his friend. The patient presented twelve hours after the initial injury. Figure 1 demonstrates the appearance at presentation.