A) Small cartilage lacerations can be left unrepaired if the overlying skin can be closed such that the cartilage edges are aligned
The ear cartilage is avascular, and depends on a relatively tenuous blood supply from the overlying perichondrium. Thus, suturing through the cartilage risks infection and avascular necrosis, and should be avoided in small lacerations that can be otherwise aligned well with simple skin sutures. An auricular block, injecting local anesthetic in a diamond-shape around the ear, is needed for anesthesia. Auricular hematomas, can develop unless a pressure dressing is placed; a potential complication of auricular hematoma is the “cauliflower ear” deformity. Chondritis is primarily caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and in this case, benefits of treatment given lack of other alternatives outweigh the risks of arthropathy.
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August 15, 2021 at 11:19 am
A) Small cartilage lacerations can be left unrepaired if the overlying skin can be closed such that the cartilage edges are aligned
The ear cartilage is avascular, and depends on a relatively tenuous blood supply from the overlying perichondrium. Thus, suturing through the cartilage risks infection and avascular necrosis, and should be avoided in small lacerations that can be otherwise aligned well with simple skin sutures. An auricular block, injecting local anesthetic in a diamond-shape around the ear, is needed for anesthesia. Auricular hematomas, can develop unless a pressure dressing is placed; a potential complication of auricular hematoma is the “cauliflower ear” deformity. Chondritis is primarily caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and in this case, benefits of treatment given lack of other alternatives outweigh the risks of arthropathy.