After the cause of the otitis has been diagnosed, the veterinarian usually will perform a thorough cleaning of the ear canals while the dog is under sedation or general anesthesia. The use of topical medications, which are placed into the ear canal, is often very beneficial in killing yeast, bacteria, and mites. Oral medications also may be used in conjunction with other treatments to help kill bacteria, yeast, and mites. The veterinarian will teach the dog's owner how to clean and medicate the ears properly to ensure successful treatment of otitis.
The surgical correction of the ear canals may be necessary in cases of severe infection. One type of surgery, called a lateral ear canal resection, allows the ear to drain more easily, decreases the amount of humidity in the ear, and makes topical treatments easier to apply. A total ear canal ablation -- a complete removal of the ear canal -- is performed on dogs with severe, chronic ear disease that is nonresponsive to medical therapy.
