A veterinarian will have important recommendations for post-pinnectomy care.
Pinnectomy, in veterinary terms, refers to the total or partial removal of the ear. The Latin root pinna refers to the ear, while an ectomy in medical terms is a removal. There are several types of pinectomies, and the surgery is performed for a variety of reasons, ranging from medical necessity to cosmetic reasons. Most animals recover well from a pinnectomy, receiving proper care and prophylactic antibiotics to prevent the onset of infection.
The suffix -ectomy refers to the surgical removal of tissue.
A unilateral pinnectomy refers to the removal of one ear, while a bilateral pinnectomy is the removal of both ears. In some cases, a partial pinnectomy may be performed, where part of the ear is removed. The surgery is performed under anesthesia and pain control medications are administered before and after the procedure to promote a positive outcome.
Pinectomies are often done for medical reasons, usually when an animal has skin cancer on the surface of the ears. This is especially common in white animals, which lack the natural pigment to resist ultraviolet radiation, which can cause carcinomas and cancers. While most skin cancers of the ear are not malignant and do not spread to other parts of the body, they are uncomfortable and unsightly, characterized by water-soaked lesions and obvious sites of irritation. In this case, a bilateral pinnectomy is usually recommended and both ears are removed as close to the head as possible to prevent recurrence. A biopsy is also recommended to make sure the cancer has been completely removed.
Especially in dogs, a cosmetic pinnectomy is sometimes performed to achieve the desired appearance. Some species have their ears tapered with a cosmetic pinnectomy, to give the head a more tapered appearance. Some members of the American Veterinary Association have spoken out against cosmetic pinnectomy, arguing that it is an unnecessary and potentially dangerous procedure.
After a pinnectomy, the inside of the animal’s ear will be more sensitive. The outer ear helps keep out dust, dirt, and other potential sources of infection. After pinna removal, pet owners should clean their pet’s ears regularly with products recommended by a veterinarian, and watch for signs of ear mites and irritation. In the case of white animals, the animal should be confined indoors if possible to prevent additional sun exposure, or sunscreen may be used. Some white pet owners tattoo depigmented areas to help prevent sun damage.
As with any veterinary procedure, a reputable veterinarian should be used and their recommendations for post-surgical care followed. In cases where it is clinically necessary, pinnectomy can result in a happier, healthier animal with a longer life expectancy and better quality of life.