You might have heard about eye removal, also known as enucleation, in dogs and wondered why such a procedure is necessary. Let us help answer your questions and shed some light on this topic in a way that's easy to understand.
Why Would an Eye Need to Be Removed?
In most cases, the decision to remove the eye is made when the eye has lost its ability to see and has become painful due to various reasons. Common causes include trauma, like infected scratches, punctures, or injuries from sharp objects, as well as tumors, glaucoma (increased pressure inside the eye), and herpes-related ulcers on the eye (in cats). These conditions lead to a painful and blinded eye. Brachycephalic breeds, characterized by flattened faces and prominent eyes, are more susceptible to eye injuries, making them more likely candidates for enucleation. The primary focus in these situations is to alleviate pain when restoring vision becomes hopeless.
But what if the eye was damaged long ago? In some cases, the eye may heal but remain blind and shrunken, causing little to no pain.
Can Anything Be Done Instead of Removal?
Now, you might be wondering if there are alternatives to enucleation. Indeed, many dog owners prefer their furry companions to have both eyes whenever possible. In certain cases, a board-certified ophthalmologist can perform specialized procedures to preserve the eye. For instance, some eye wounds can be carefully trimmed and closed with tiny sutures using proper magnification. In other cases, the inner contents of the eye can be replaced with a prosthesis, commonly referred to as a "black ball," to create a more natural appearance. However, these procedures are not suitable for infected eyes or those with tumors. Additionally, there are advanced surgical procedures available to treat glaucoma while still saving the eye.
Keep in mind that these specialized procedures can be costly, often three to four times more expensive than enucleation. Enucleation, on the other hand, can typically be performed by most general practitioners, making it a more accessible and practical option for many dog owners. If you're interested in pursuing an advanced procedure, you'll need a referral to a board-certified ophthalmologist. Simply ask your veterinarian for guidance.
Understanding the Eye Removal Process
Now, let's address the concerns you might have about the surgery itself. Is it painful or disfiguring? As seen in "Winky," the Shih Tzu shown at the top of this page, brachycephalic breeds can be surprisingly resilient after enucleation. Many owners let the hair grow long over the enucleated side, creating a less noticeable appearance. Pain-relieving medications are administered during the first week or so after surgery, and once the healing process is complete, the surgical area should be pain-free and comfortable.
After surgery, the eye is removed, and the eyelids are carefully stitched closed. There might be stitches that need to be removed in 10 to 14 days, or sometimes the stitches are buried inside the eye socket. Initially, the eyelids may be swollen, and there could be some bruising. A small amount of red-tinged fluid seeping from the incision is normal. Over the following week, the swelling will decrease, and the eye socket will flatten out. To prevent rubbing or scratching of the eye area, an Elizabethan collar is often provided and should be worn for 10 to 14 days until the incision is fully healed. Your dog should be able to eat and drink with the collar on, but you can remove it at mealtime if well supervised.
After enucleation, your dog will have lost peripheral vision on the side of the procedure, which might require some adjustment.
Post-Surgery Complications & Limitations
Now, let's address any concerns about potential problems after the surgery. Infection is a possible complication that might result in continued swelling of the eye area and pus drainage from the incision. If you suspect an infection, it's essential to recheck with your vet promptly. Keep in mind that some mild oozing of red-tinged fluid is normal during the initial days after surgery.
In certain cases where the eye was enucleated due to severe tear or rupture, a small fragment of the rear eye membranes might remain behind. This can lead to ongoing fluid secretion and chronic oozing from the incision. If this becomes excessive, a second surgery may be necessary to thoroughly clean out the eye socket.
You might be wondering if your dog will face any limitations after the surgery. As long as the other eye can see, there are unlikely to be any serious handicaps. The dog will not be able to see on the side of the enucleation and may occasionally bump into objects. Being approached from the enucleation side might startle your dog more easily. Apart from these adjustments, once healing is complete, life can return to normal. If your dog has a condition that poses a risk to the remaining eye, make sure you understand any preventive measures that should be taken.
In conclusion, enucleation is a necessary procedure in cases where the eye is irreversibly damaged, painful, or affected by tumors. While some advanced procedures may be available, enucleation remains a practical and accessible option for many pets. Following surgery, your pet's comfort and well-being will be prioritized, and with proper care, they can adapt to life with one eye and enjoy a happy and healthy existence.
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