A Harrowing Experience of Pinna Lacerations

Abstract

Otological injuries are not rare presentations to the Emergency Department but they may sometimes be harrowing. These injuries can sometimes lead to haematoma and perichondritis which may lead to cosmetic disfigurement. Hence, opportune and prudent intervention is required to prevent the complications. The present study was conducted to examine the wide range of pinna lacerations, various methods of repair to obtain best cosmetic results and outcome, prevention of development of complications. This case series is about 27 patients with pinna laceration and its management in patients who attended the Emergency Department at a tertiary care hospital. All lacerations of pinna due to any cause were included in the study except chemical and thermal burns. Detailed history was recorded. These patients were managed with wound debridement, suturing and were followed-up regularly to monitor the development of complications. Out of 27 patients, 21 patients had a complete wound healing without any complications. Two patients developed wound gapping and underwent resuturing under local anaesthesia. Perichondritis of pinna has occurred in three patients. Timely intervention is very important for healing and prevention of complications. Normal anatomical contour and good cosmetic results is achieved by adequate wound debridement, maximum tissue restoration, meticulous suturing and wide antibiotic coverage.