Cherry eye in sporting dogs
For consistent long-term resolution of prolapsed third eyelid glands, surgical repair is often the best course of action
By Ben J. CharacterProlapsed gland of the third eyelid is a common problem encountered in hunting dogs, especially in the hound breeds, such as the Bassett hound and beagle, as well as in some spaniels.
The cause of a prolapsed third eyelid gland — commonly referred to as a "cherry eye" — is related to a lack of proper tissue attachment of the gland to the tissues surrounding the eye. This lack of connection allows the gland to move out of position as the globe is retracted into the orbit. Any source of irritation may cause the globe to be retracted allowing the gland to move out of its normal position. Once freed, the gland itself is exposed to irritation — the result being inflammation and enlargement, effectively trapping the gland in the prolapsed position.
While anti-inflammatories will in some cases resolve gland inflammation and allow return to normal positioning, these treatments do not address the primary problem. Lack of tissue attachment is due to improper development, and because of this there is little hope that medical measures will provide long-term resolution for the problem. Although a better choice than doing nothing — medical treatment is not the answer.
For consistent long-term resolution of prolapsed third eyelid glands, surgical repair is warranted. Surgical repair can be cast into two camps: removal and replacement.
Removal of "cherry eyes" is a commonly practiced way to resolve prolapsed third eyelid glands. There are many different methods of removal. Although CO2 lasers are promoted for their hemostatic cutting properties, veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Lou Laratta prefers to limit laser use to procedures such as "extra marginal eyelid mass removals."
| About Ben Character | |
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Dr. Character is a freelance writer and private veterinary practitioner
concentrating on sporting dog issues. He has practiced large and small animal medicine and surgery since graduating from Auburn University. Recently, he went on to complete post-doctoral studies at Mississippi State University. Dr. Character is a certified PennHIP member and writes for magazines such as Retriever Journal and Pointing Dog Journal. He is an avid outdoorsman who resides in Union, Alabama, south of Tuscaloosa, with his wife and two children. |
Removal of the gland does carry a degree of risk associated with it. Due to its associated function of tear production, keratoconjunctivitis (KCS) resulting in "dry eye" is a possible sequelae. Breeds predisposed to KCS warrant serious consideration before agreeing to have the gland removed. It is prudent to test tear production prior to removal even in breeds not predisposed to KCS.
According to veterinary ophthalmologist Christina Vygantus, the latest advancements, which involve replacement of the gland instead of removal, are now over ten years old.
Today, most ophthalmologists prefer the Morgan Pocket technique for surgically repairing a prolapsed third eyelid gland. Dr. Laratta points out that, "Dr. Morgan's "pocket-technique" involves the least amount of trauma to the third eyelid gland and ductules, and apposes the gland where it is normally positioned." With a little practice and the right instrumentation most general practitioners can master the procedure.
In comparison with removal procedures, repositioning of the third eyelid gland requires complete deep anesthesia. Post-operative analgesics are a frequently used, and topical ophthalmic anti-inflammatories may help reduce post-operative pain. In cases where the glands have become extremely swollen, pre-treatment for several days with an antibiotic/steroid combination may prove useful in reducing swelling making replacement easier. Treatment failure is somewhat common in certain breeds, with bulldogs and Napoleon mastiffs having a 10-15% failure rate.
"Cherry eyes" are common ophthalmic problems seen in hunting dogs. They can be treated in a variety of ways, but surgical care is usually required for complete resolution. Removal and replacement are both valid ways to deal with a prolapsed third eyelid gland, as long as potential complications are understood. If need be, referral to veterinary ophthalmologist is usually available.
