Bolsterless management for recurrent auricular hematomata

The objectives were to describe our experience with a bolsterless technique for the management of auricular hematomata and discuss the management options for auricular hematomata and the comparative benefits of the bolsterless technique.

Retrospective case series.

Patients presented with recurrent auricular hematomata following traditional treatment with incision and drainage and bolster placement. Revision incision and drainage were performed, and then auricular skin was stabilized using through-and-through absorbable horizontal mattress sutures. Patients were seen in follow-up to evaluate for recurrence and assess cosmetic results.

Twenty-eight patients were treated for recurrent auricular hematomata using the bolsterless technique. There were no recurrences in follow-up, and cosmetic results were judged to be excellent by both patient and surgeon.

Bolsterless management for auricular hematomata using absorbable mattress sutures has been described intermittently in the otolaryngology literature since 1991 but is not widely utilized. In this series, patients presenting with recurrent auricular hematomata following failure of traditional bolster management were effectively managed with the bolsterless technique. This technique is well tolerated by patients and allows for early return to athletic activity.