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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Removing foreign objects from dog tear sacs using special forceps

By Jimenez-Ramos, Laura et al.Ā·Published in Veterinary ophthalmologyĀ·2024Ā·Department of Ophthalmology, SpainĀ·View original on PubMed →

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Original publication title: Nasolacrimal sac foreign body extraction using vitreoretinal forceps in 28 dogs.

Species:
dog
Canine GlaucomaStomach & digestionDogs

Plain-English summary

A group of 28 dogs, including breeds like Wire-Haired Dachshunds and Labrador Retrievers, were treated for eye problems caused by foreign bodies stuck in their tear ducts. These dogs showed signs of dacryocystitis, which is inflammation due to blockages, often from grass awns or seeds. A new technique using special forceps allowed veterinarians to remove these foreign objects through a small opening in the eyelid without needing major surgery. After the removal and proper medical care, all the dogs showed improvement within a month.

People also search for: dog eye problems foreign body Ā· dacryocystitis treatment in dogs Ā· how to remove grass awns from dog eye

Abstract

PURPOSE: To describe a novel technique of nasolacrimal foreign body extraction in dogs by using a 20G vitreoretinal forceps introduced through the superior lacrimal punctum. METHODS: A retrospective review of the medical records of dogs with dacryocystitis due to nasolacrimal foreign bodies between the years 2001 and 2022 was performed. We recorded the breed, age, affected eye, type and number of foreign bodies, concomitant diseases, and the use of imaging techniques. All animals underwent the same procedure of a 20G vitreoretinal forceps insertion through the upper canaliculus reaching the lacrimal sac and retrograde extraction of the foreign bodies. RESULTS: A total of 28 dogs were included, 16 males and 12 females, with a mean (±SD) age of 4.7 (±3.2) years. The most common breeds were Wire-Haired Dachshund (4/28; 14.29%) and Labrador Retriever (3/28; 10.71%). Additional imaging techniques were used, such as orbital ultrasound in 13 cases (13/28; 46.43%) and computed tomography in one case (1/28; 3.57%). The most common type of foreign body retrieved was grass awns, although seeds and plant debris were also found. Dacryocystitis resolved after removal of the foreign body and appropriate medical therapy was ensured in all cases in the 1-month postprocedure follow-up. CONCLUSION: Extraction of nasolacrimal foreign bodies with vitreoretinal forceps is a novel, noninvasive, and easily applicable technique that, although not successful in all cases, can be attempted before performing more aggressive surgery.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38414137/