Farms.com Home   News

What to Expect with Standing Enucleations

While severe equine eye injuries or disorders can be gruesome in appearance, they generally aren't life-threatening. Thanks to medical and technological advances, veterinarians can now treat eye issues more effectively than they have in the past. But if treatment fails, veterinarians also have the option of removing the eye without the risks associated with general anesthesia using a procedure called a standing enucleation.

At the 2013 American Association of Equine Practitioners' Convention, held Dec. 7-11 in Nashville, Tenn., Wendy Townsend, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVO, assistant professor of ophthalmology at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, reviewed how to perform a standing enucleation and what to expect.

Townsend said the standing eye removal surgery is a reasonable alternative to enucleations performed under general anesthesia, but case selection is critical to success—not every horse is a good candidate for this procedure. The standing procedure could benefit large, lame, or geriatric horses that could be at-risk for complications when recovering from general anesthesia, she said. Case selection should also take into account the horse's temperament (calmer is better), the degree of discomfort (less painful eyes are better), and the extent of surgery (procedures involving resection and reconstruction—such as eye removals related to neoplasia, or tumors—aren't good candidates for the standing procedure), she added.

Source: TheHorse


Trending Video

Pork Industry Priorities - Dr. Brett Kaysen

Video: Pork Industry Priorities - Dr. Brett Kaysen


In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Brett Kaysen, senior vice president of producer and state engagement lead at the National Pork Board, outlines a bold strategy for the pork industry's future. He explores how national and state collaborations are strengthening the U.S. pork supply chain, why swine health must take center stage, and the importance of youth involvement for long-term sustainability. Hear how leadership, strategy, and grassroots action are shaping tomorrow’s industry. Listen now on all major platforms!

"It’s all about driving demand, partnering with our states, and making for a healthier swineherd."

Meet the guest: Dr. Brett Kaysen / brett-kaysen-b2a970108 serves as senior vice president of producer and state engagement lead at the National Pork Board. With a Ph.D. in Animal Sciences from Colorado State University, his leadership spans academia, industry, and youth development. From advancing swine sustainability to leading grassroots collaborations, Dr. Kaysen brings over 20 years of insight to the pork sector.