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Corneal hypoesthesia, aqueous tear deficiency, and neurotrophic keratopathy following micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in dogs
Author(s) -
Sebbag Lionel,
Crabtree Elizabeth E.,
Sapienza John S.,
Kim Kay,
Rodriguez Elena
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
veterinary ophthalmology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.594
H-Index - 50
eISSN - 1463-5224
pISSN - 1463-5216
DOI - 10.1111/vop.12705
Subject(s) - medicine , hypoesthesia , ophthalmology , population , surgery , anesthesia , environmental health
Abstract Objective To describe ocular surface complications following micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP‐TSCPC) in dogs. Animals studied Eighteen dogs treated with MP‐TSCPC at two institutions for glaucoma management. Procedures MP‐TSCPC was applied to each eye (avoiding 3 and 9 o'clock positions) with 31.3% duty cycle, 2000‐3000 mW energy, and 90‐180 seconds duration per hemisphere. Central corneal tactile sensation (CTS) and Schirmer tear test‐1 (STT‐1) were measured at baseline and ≥2 post‐operative visits in each dog. Results Corneal sensitivity decreased in 16/18 dogs (89%) by an average of 10%‐42% (up to 100% in 4 dogs). CTS decline was rapid (≤1 week) and only fully recovered in 50% of dogs within 8‐180 days. Patients' age, glaucoma duration, laser energy, and total energy delivered did not affect CTS at any visit. However, brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower CTS and likelihood to recover full sensation compared with nonbrachycephalic dogs. Aqueous tear deficiency (STT‐1 < 15 mm/min) occurred in 8/18 dogs (44%) within 7‐270 days, and concurrent signs of keratoconjunctivitis sicca were noted in 2/18 dogs (11%). Neurotrophic corneal ulcers developed in 6/18 dogs (33.3%) and required 16‐53 days to heal. Conclusions Corneal hypoesthesia is a common complication of MP‐TSCPC in dogs, and can lead to serious adverse effects such as aqueous tear deficiency and neurotrophic corneal ulcers. Brachycephalic dogs represent a population at higher risk. Close monitoring of ocular surface health is recommended for months following MP‐TSCPC in dogs.