[Ultrasonography in veterinary ophthalmology]

Ophthalmic examination evaluates ocular structures in both the anterior and the posterior segments of the eye. In the eye without opacities of the transmitting media, this is accomplished through biomicroscopy, direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. However, in eyes with media opacities, evaluation, especially of the posterior segment, is difficult or impossible by these routine methods. Further, evaluation of retrobulbar tissues has been limited to radiography and blind aspirate, or surgical exploration. Ultrasound is a noninvasive, safe procedure that allows evaluation of the intraocular and retrobulbar tissues without sedation or general anesthesia.