What is the treatment for an earlobe laceration?

From the Guidelines

Earlobe lacerations should be treated promptly with thorough cleaning and suturing if necessary to ensure proper healing and cosmetic results. For minor lacerations, cleaning the wound with soap and water or saline solution, applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding, and applying an antibiotic ointment is essential [@1@]. However, larger or more complex lacerations require medical attention, typically involving suturing under local anesthesia to properly align the edges of the earlobe.

Some key considerations in treating earlobe lacerations include:

• Cleaning the wound thoroughly to prevent infection
• Applying antibiotic ointment to promote healing and prevent infection
• Suturing larger lacerations to ensure proper alignment and cosmetic results
• Keeping the area clean and dry after treatment to prevent infection
• Monitoring for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever

It's also important to note that earrings can become embedded in the earlobe, especially in individuals with thick, fleshy earlobes, and may require a small incision under local anesthesia to remove [@1@]. Additionally, contact dermatitis resulting from nickel exposure is common, and avoidance of the metal and application of topical corticosteroids can hasten resolution [@1@].

In terms of specific treatment, a healthcare provider may use local anesthesia, such as 1% lidocaine with epinephrine, before placing fine sutures, usually 6-0 nylon or similar, to close the wound [@1@]. Sutures typically remain in place for 7-10 days, and the area should be kept clean and dry, avoiding submerging in water for 24-48 hours. Complete earlobe healing takes approximately 4-6 weeks, and proper treatment is crucial to ensure good cosmetic results [@1@].

From the Research

Earlobe Laceration Treatment

• The primary goals of treating an earlobe laceration are to achieve hemostasis and optimal cosmetic results without increasing the risk of infection 1.
• There is no defined "golden period" for safely repairing a wound without increasing the risk of infection, and it may be reasonable to close a wound even 18 or more hours after injury 1.
• The use of nonsterile gloves during laceration repair does not increase the risk of wound infection compared to sterile gloves 1.
• Irrigation with potable tap water rather than sterile saline also does not increase the risk of wound infection 1.

Anesthesia and Wound Closure

• Local anesthetic with epinephrine in a concentration of 1:200,000 is safe for use on the ears 1.
• Tissue adhesives and wound adhesive strips can be used effectively in low-tension skin areas, such as the earlobe 1.

Wound Care and Follow-up

• Wounds heal faster in a moist environment, and occlusive and semiocclusive dressings should be considered when available 1.
• Tetanus prophylaxis should be provided if indicated 1.
• The timing of suture removal depends on the location of the wound and is based on expert opinion and experience 1.