Ocular Emergencies

A single-video course is here again total 91 mins.

1. Initial Approach to Ocular Emergencies

• Remain calm when faced with a red eye.
• Perform a systematic eye exam starting from the eyelids and working inward.
• Use consistent exam techniques to avoid missing critical signs.

2. Essential Tools for Eye Examination

• Finoff transilluminator (for proper lighting)
• Head loupe or magnification
• Schirmer tear test
• Fluorescein stain
• Tonometer (e.g., Tonopen, Tonovet)
• Tropicamide (dilating agent) and Proparacaine (anesthetic)

3. Understanding Proptosis

• Definition: Forward displacement of the globe due to trauma or restraint.
• Common in: Brachycephalic dogs (e.g., pugs, shih tzus).
• Caused by: Trauma, restraint, breed anatomy.

5. Common Complications

• Blindness
• Neurotrophic keratitis (due to corneal nerve damage)
• Dry eye
• Lagophthalmos (incomplete eyelid closure)
• Lateral strabismus (due to medial rectus tear)

6. Emergency Management

• Lubricate eye immediately and apply E-collar.
• Owners may apply artificial tears and E-collar at home before arrival.

7. Globe Replacement Technique

• Clean globe with dilute betadine solution (not scrub).
• Premedication: Atropine/glycopyrrolate to prevent oculocardiac reflex.
• Anesthesia: Propofol or alfaxalone preferred.
• Manual replacement using a muscle hook (no lateral canthotomy unless needed).
• Apply temporary tarsorrhaphy using 5-0 nylon sutures.

8. Post-Operative Care

• Cold packs
• Topical antibiotics (e.g., Terramycin, tobramycin)
• Atropine drops once daily (for ciliary spasm)
• Lubricants frequently
• Oral anti-inflammatories (e.g., Rimadyl, Meloxicam) for 10–14 days
• E-collar mandatory

9. Long-Term Consideration

Consider medial canthoplasty in brachycephalic breeds to reduce recurrence risk and improve appearance.

Free course – Final quiz

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