A new type of intraocular prosthesis for dogs

A simple technique is described in which sterile silicone oil (viscosity 350 cSt) was injected into the globe of an eviscerated eye with an intact cornea and sclera; the volume injected was calculated from the formula 3/4 pi r3 where 'r' was the horizontal corneal diameter. After induction of general anaesthesia and routine preparation of the surgical site, the globe was eviscerated by using a transscleral or transcorneal approach. The procedure was carried out in five dogs with follow-ups ranging between 19 and 27 months. None of the eyes developed postoperative complications. In one dog, more silicone oil had to be injected 10 days after surgery to increase the size of the globe to match the other eye. The intraocular contents were removed more easily by using the transcorneal approach, which also resulted in a perfect adjustment and virtually eliminated the possibility of leakage of silicone oil, than by a transscleral approach. The dogs responded extremely well and their owners were satisfied with the cosmetic appearance of their pets.