A technique to treat wrestlers' auricular hematoma without interrupting training or competition

Auricular hematoma is a common injury occurring among high school and collegiate wrestlers. Conventional pressure dressings applied over the auricle make it impossible for the athlete to continue to train and to compete, resulting in a high degree of noncompliance. We describe a technique that permits treatment of the hematoma while the athlete continues to train. It involves an incision and drainage followed by the immediate application of a pressure dressing sutured to the auricle. This approach was used to treat 24 auricular hematomas in 19 wrestlers. The analysis demonstrates a low complication rate and documents a rapid return to competition.