Current developments in equine cataract surgery.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Ophthalmology
• Equine Surgery

Background:

• Equine cataract surgery shares principles with human and other veterinary ophthalmology.
• Unique challenges exist in equine lens removal and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation due to equine eye anatomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution of equine cataract surgery over the past 50 years.
• To highlight advancements in surgical techniques, instrumentation, and IOLs for horses.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical and current surgical techniques in equine cataract surgery.
• Discussion of species-specific instrumentation and foldable intraocular lens (IOL) development.
• Examination of evolving methods for visual capacity assessment (e.g., ocular ultrasonography, electroretinography).

Main Results:

• Species-specific instrumentation has been crucial for surgical technique advancements in the last 15-20 years.
• Equine-specific foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implants show promise for improved postoperative visual outcomes.
• Phacofragmentation (phacoemulsification) is now routine for mature horses, while aspiration has been used in foals for decades.

Conclusions:

• Equine cataract surgery has undergone substantial changes, becoming more refined and effective.
• Continued development in equine-specific IOLs and assessment methods is vital for enhancing visual outcomes.
• Increased awareness among equine veterinarians regarding these advancements is encouraged.