Surgical Repair of Ankyloblepharon in Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos)

Congenital and acquired ankyloblepharon (complete fusion of the upper and lower eyelids) have been documented in birds (Buyukmihci et al 1990; Pinard et al 2006). Surgical repair of ankyloblepharon in cockatiels (Nymphicus spp.) has been reported as unsuccessful in four cases of presumed congenital origin and successful in one case of acquired ankyloblepharon (Buyukmihci et al 1990; Pinard et al 2006). Two mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) with ankyloblepharon were treated with surgical reconstruction of the eyelids to restore bilateral vision. The first mallard presented as a one–week old orphan. Physical exam findings were normal except for a small amount of mucopurulent discharge from the left eye. Surgical reconstruction of the eyelids was performed successfully, with signs of wound contracture two weeks post–operatively, but no further closure at the three–week recheck. A full thickness corneal scar, anterior synechia, and small cataract were noted during surgery that suggest trauma as a cause for the ankyloblepharon. The second mallard presented with ankyloblepharon of unknown etiology. The first surgical reconstruction was unsuccessful, however a second attempt, using a more rigorous surgical eyelid excision, was successful with no further closure of the palpebral fissure at follow–up two months later. Moderate pododermatitis was successfully treated using systemic antibiotics and Collasate  (PRN Pharmacal, Pensacola, FL) regimen.