Answer:
Ideally chondritis should be prevented by measures such as topical sulfamylon cream and avoidance of pressure on the injured ear. Early diagnosis and treatment of chondritis are important in limiting spread and subsequent deformity. Prompt incision and drainage with local debridement of infected tissue and nonviable cartilage should be performed. Bivalving the ear may be necessary to ensure complete excision of nonviable cartilage and avoid recurrence. In either case, the wound is allowed to heal secondarily using light pressure dressings. In bivalved ears, a fine-mesh gauze soaked in antibacterial solution and placed between the skin flaps of the ear should be used to minimize further infection. Systemic antibiotic prophylaxis has not been shown to reduce the incidence of chondritis.