Transpalpebral enucleation using a chain écraseur

Abstract

Summary This study was undertaken to describe the technique, complications and outcome of the use of a chain écraseur for transpalpebral enucleation in horses under general anaesthesia. We report its use in 53 horses, reviewing the subject details, reasons for enucleation, surgical technique, intra‐ and post operative complications, and long‐term outcome. Intraoperative complications included mild to moderate bleeding in 4 horses. Post operative complications included mild periorbital post operative swelling in one horse, transient head tilt in one horse and severe enterocolitis, which resulted in euthanasia in one horse; another 2 horses were subjected to euthanasia after long bone fractures that occurred during recovery from general anaesthesia and 2 horses had the prosthesis removed as a result of inflammatory reaction or infection. Long‐term outcome was available for 38 horses, 25 of which returned to their previous activities and 13 were retired. Twelve horses were lost for follow‐up. Transpalpebral enucleation using a chain écraseur is a feasible alternative to traditional enucleation techniques that can provide adequate haemostasis during transection of the optic pedicle when used properly.

A multicentre study of long‐term follow‐up and owner satisfaction following enucleation in horses

“…The rate of complications in this study was similar to previous studies and confirms the relative safety of enucleation compared to other surgical procedures. Contrary to a previous report , orbital implants were not significantly associated with post‐enucleation complications in this study.…”

“…Horses that have suffered with an intractably painful eye are assumed to have an improved quality of life following enucleation and it has been shown that horses are able to return to a variety of occupations following unilateral enucleation . Despite this, owners of horses with diseased eyes are often reluctant to consider enucleation .…”

Recovery after General Anaesthesia in Adult Horses: A Structured Summary of the Literature

“…Five studies described complications during the recovery period associated to ocular surgery [375][376][377][378][379]. For these procedures, horses were at higher risk of unsatisfactory recoveries compared to horses undergoing splint bone excision [375].…”

Extirpation of the horse globe: A commentary on equine enucleation

“…Launois et al (2009) had good success reducing equine enucleation surgical complications with a feedback-controlled bipolar electrocautery device. García-López et al (2009) adapted an instrument to remove uterine polyps to mechanically achieve orbital haemostasis and optic nerve transection in enucleation procedures in horses, but seemed to have a few more surgical complications related to experience using the instrument.…”

“…The subconjunctival approach is thought to be quicker and associated with less haemorrhage, but risks leaving behind some secreting tissues (Brooks 2006). The specific details of both techniques are described in the accompanying articles by Launois et al (2009) and García-López et al (2009).…”