Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Blind 9-month-old llama's cataracts fixed with surgery
By Gionfriddo, Juliet R & Blair, Michael·Published in Veterinary ophthalmology·2002·Colorado State University, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Congenital cataracts and persistent hyaloid vasculature in a llama (Lama glama).
Plain-English summary
A 9-month-old llama was brought in because it seemed blind. The vet found cataracts in both eyes and performed surgery on the right eye. During the operation, they discovered some unusual eye structures that were still present, which can complicate surgery. Despite the challenges and a history of poor outcomes for cataract surgery in llamas, the vet used special techniques and medications to successfully restore vision in both eyes.
People also search for: llama cataract surgery · why is my llama blind · llama eye problems treatment
Abstract
A 9-month-old llama was evaluated for apparent blindness. Bilateral cataracts were diagnosed and cataract surgery was performed on the right eye. At the time of surgery persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous, persistent hyperplastic tunica vasculosa lentis, and a persistent hyaloid artery were observed. Prior to surgery Power Doppler ultrasound revealed a patent tunica vasculosa lentis OS. Despite reports of a poor success rate for llama cataract surgery, through use of careful tissue handling, phacoemulsification, viscoelastic endothelial protectants, anti-inflammatories, and BSS-Plus irrigating solution, vision was successfully restored in both eyes of the llama.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11940250/