Successful Outcome of secondary intention healing of full thickness lower eyelid defects in dogs

ObjectivesTo assess healing of the canine lower eyelid without anatomical reconstruction.Materials and MethodsThe study is a retrospective case series, three client ‐owned dogs with lower eyelid defects. Dogs that underwent debridement of lower eyelid wounds that were left to heal by secondary intention were assessed for anatomical, functional and aesthetic outcomes.ResultsTwo of the cases had previously undergone tumour resection with a lip ‐to‐lid reconstruction and, following flap failure, developed a full thickness defect. The third dog presented with a traumatic laceration. Each dog lost approximately 70 to 90% of the lower eyelid margin. Two received topical antimicrobial eye drops after debridement, while the third dog requir ed no further treatment. Follow‐up periods of 3 years, 15 months and 4 months were available. All owners were satisfied with the cosmetic outcome and provided pictures. One owner reported epiphora but no other ophthalmic complications occurred.Clinical SignificanceThe result of this small case series supports the notion that not all lower eyelid injuries or tumour resections require anatomical reconstruction. Selected cases can be left to heal by secondary intention with minimal post ‐operative complications.
Source: The Journal of Small Animal Practice - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Tags: PAPER Source Type: research