A DRESSING FOR HEMATOMA OF THE EAR

Abstract

Hematoma of the ear is seen very frequently at the Surgical Out-Patient Department, and at the Student Health Service of the University of Pennsylvania, where wrestlers and boxers of the university squads are cared for. These hematomas are often treated soon after they appear and while the blood is still liquid, so that aspiration is an easy procedure in most cases. The more difficult part of the treatment is the application of a pressure dressing that will prevent recurrence. Although textbooks state that a snug bandage over the ear is sufficient, my experience has been that recurrence almost invariably takes place with such treatment. Some authors have suggested the use of plaster molded pressure bandages. These have been found to be cumbersome, and many students are content to have a cauliflower ear rather than to wear a large dressing that surrounds the head. A dressing is here presented that has