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Cataracts and phacoemulsification in the Siberian Husky: A retrospective and multicentric study (2008–2018)
Author(s) -
Uhl Lisa K.,
Henriksen Michala de Linde,
Saxmose Nielsen Søren,
GemenskyMetzler Anne J.,
Sebbag Lionel,
Todd Jeffrey M.
Publication year - 2021
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.12883
Subject(s) - cataracts , phacoemulsification , medicine , ophthalmology , retrospective cohort study , presentation (obstetrics) , medical record , surgery , visual acuity
Purpose To compare cataract characteristics and complications related to cataracts and phacoemulsification in the Siberian Husky (Huskies) versus other canine breeds (non‐Huskies). Animals A total of 50 Huskies (92 eyes) and 96 non‐Huskies (182 eyes) were evaluated. Methods Medical records of Huskies (at four university veterinary hospitals, 2008–2018) and non‐Huskies (Colorado State University, 2017–2018) diagnosed with cataracts were reviewed. Age of dog, cataract stage at presentation, and pre‐ and post‐operative complications were recorded and analyzed. Results Mean (±standard deviation) age at presentation was significantly lower in Huskies (3.5 ± 3.3 years) compared to non‐Huskies (9.5 ± 2.9 years) ( p < .0001). Huskies more commonly presented with hereditary cataracts than non‐Huskies (84% versus 52%) and a significantly higher percentage of non‐Huskies presented with diabetic cataracts than Huskies (48% versus 16%; p = .0001). Cataract stage at presentation did not differ between Huskies and non‐Huskies. Phacoemulsification was performed in 40% (20 out of 50 dogs, 39 out of 92 eyes) of Huskies and 42% (40 out of 96 dogs, 74 out of 182 eyes) of non‐Huskies. Pre‐operative and post‐operative retinal detachment were more common in Huskies than non‐Huskies (13% versus 2% and 10% versus 1%, respectively) but the difference was not significant. Other post‐operative complications occurred with similar frequency in both groups ( p ≥ .17). Conclusions Huskies evaluated for cataracts were younger and less likely to present with diabetic cataracts than other canine breeds and, although not statistically significant, had a clinically important increased risk of retinal detachment pre‐ and post‐phacoemulsification.