CAULIFLOWER EAR - CARE and PREVENTION
What is Cauliflower Ear?
Cauliflower Ear is an acquired deformity of the outer ear. In this
injury, the ear can shrivel up and fold in on itself and appear pale,
giving it a cauliflower–like appearance, hence the term cauliflower
ear. Wrestlers, boxers and martial artists in particular are
susceptible to this type of injury. When the ear is struck and a blood
clot develops under the skin, or the skin is sheared from the
cartilage, the connection of the skin to the cartilage is disrupted.
The ear is vulnerable to blunt trauma. The cartilage of the ear has no
other blood supply except that supplied by the overlying skin. When the
skin is pulled from the cartilage, and/or separated from the cartilage
by blood (as with accumulated, localized blood from injury, called a
hematoma) or infection, the cartilage is deprived of important
nutrients. Ultimately, the cartilage dies and the risk of infection is
increased.
Untreated, the ear cartilage begins to contract on itself forming a
shriveled up outer ear classically known as the cauliflower ear
deformity. Once there is cartilage death and scarring (fibrosis), the
resulting deformity is very difficult to reconstruct. The ear may also
appear pale, due to loss of blood supply. In some cases, cosmetic
procedures may be able to improve appearance of the ear, but often the
victim can be left with a permanent deformity.
Because the ear is vulnerable to infection, it's important to treat these
hematomas, even if the patient is not concerned with the cosmetic appearance of
the ear. If the ear drum is also injured (ruptured), the wound may be
treated with stitches. However, significant hearing loss may still occur.
How is Cauliflower Ear treated?
The goals of treatment are to drain blood from the hematoma, treat
any infection, and re-establish the connection of the skin to the
underlying cartilage. Treatment usually requires draining accumulated
blood (the hematoma) through an incision in the ear and applying a
compressive dressing to sandwich the two sides of the skin against the
cartilage. Antibiotics are given to prevent infection.
What is the prognosis for Cauliflower Ear?
When treated aggressively and promptly, Cauliflower Ear deformity is
unlikely. Any delay in diagnosis leads to more difficulty in managing
the problem, increased chances for insufficient blood supply to the ear
cartilage, and escalated risk of deformity.
How can Cauliflower Ear be prevented?
Protective headgear and helmets worn during sporting activities can
help prevent this condition. Helmets can also protect from serious head
injury. See a doctor (preferably an otolaryngologist–ear, nose and throat
specialist or plastic surgeon) for definitive care as soon as possible
after the injury.
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