Ear Infections and Hematoma Surgery in a Dog

Dr Greg talks about the causes and treatment of ear hematomas. He also talks about different causes of ear infections that lead to chronic ear problems and hematomas.

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• veterinary
• surgery
• ear
• infections
• hematomas
• dogs

[therealsteve2437]

My dog just had an operation yesterday was allow to leave back home with me today. However it seem he is suffering in pain and whining. I called back the vet and said it was normal. My question is why did they leave the ear open?

[DrGregDVM]

@therealsteve2437 They leave the ear open because it needs to heal from the inside out. If closed,it will remain a hematoma or bubble and the skin has a hard time reattaching to the cartilage of the ear.

[DrGregDVM]

@DrGregDVM Did they send home pain relievers Deramaxx Rimadyl Tramadol. If not you can use an aspirin 1 adult per thirty pounds twice daily for pain

[drawolftiger]

I enjoy this VDO. :) I actually have seen a vet perform surgery for ear hematoma before, he drained the blood out with a needle and a syringe, make a small cut to explore, clean and and to allow the blood to passively drain, and stitched a flat sponge onto the ear. The stitching method is quite similar (small stitches through the cartilage). The result was quite satisfactory.

I'd love to hear you opinion about this alternative method. And compare the pros and cons of this method and yours. :)

[DrGregDVM]

@drawolftiger I have found small hematomas require smaller incisions. The one I showed was a huge one. The smallest incision you can make is best for the dog. Some vets are injecting cortisone and following with cortisone pills to shrink the hematoma without surgery. O course, best is prevention by avoiding allergens in the diet that cause chronic ear infections resulting in hematomas: dogdisgdietcom

[drawolftiger]

@DrGregDVM What does Cortisone do exactly?, I mean which of its effect that the vet desire from using it. Suppress immunity? Anti-inflammatory?

And thank you so much for answering. :) Your explanation is most helpful!

[DrGregDVM]

@drawolftiger Cortisone is a natural hormone produced in our body. In high doses it decreases inflammation.(Our true enemy!) If uses in high doses for long periods of time, it may weaken the immune system and impair liver and kidney function. I use cortisone to put the fire out and then wean the patient off as soon as possible

[drawolftiger]

@DrGregDVM Okay. Thank you. :) That makes sense.

[DrGregDVM]

@karipocha Music always helps me enjoy surgery! Use the instruments and suture, and try stitching up a deceased dog or cat after a necropsy, orange, tennis ball, or something to practice on. It is important to be used to handling instruments and suture so that you can concentrate on the patient. Don't worry, you will do fine!!