Acute management of auricular hematoma: a novel approach and retrospective review

This retrospective case series is used to describe a refined technique for the aspiration and drainage of auricular hematoma that is simple, cost-effective, and allows for rapid recovery. Patients, all high school males participating in competitive wrestling, were enrolled voluntarily after risks and benefits were discussed, and consent was obtained. Criteria for enrollment included acute auricular hematoma of at least 2 cm in size with occurrence no greater than 3 weeks before presentation, and no overt signs of infection. Patients underwent alcohol cleansing followed by injection of 1% lidocaine, and hematoma aspiration with an 18-gauge catheter. The cannula was left within the hematoma cavity, and a compression dressing was applied. This method is an acceptable alternative to current methods of managing auricular hematoma. It is simple, cost-effective, and provides rapid recovery with a complication rate comparable to other procedures described.