SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF PROLAPSED THIRD EYELID GLAND (CHERRY EYE) IN DOGS: A REPORT OF 8 CASES

Prolapsed nictitating membrane gland (PNMG), or cherry eye, is the most common primary disorder of the third eyelid in dogs.

- Dr. Ganesh Balineni., Dr. Sumanth Bedre M. and Dr. Ilona Otter

INTRODUCTION

The condition occurs because of laxity of the connective tissue anchoring the gland to the third eyelid. Several surgical procedures have been described to reposition the gland and are generally divided into anchor and pocket techniques. The decision to pocket or anchor a gland often comes down to a surgeon's preferences and experience. Dogs treated with surgical replacement of the gland have a lower incidence of dry eye/ keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) later in life than dogs that are either left untreated or have the prolapsed gland excised.

CASE HISTORY AND CLINICAL EXAMINATION

From March 2021 to March 2022, a total of 8 cases were presented (Table 1) at the WVS India International Training centre in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu.

In all the cases, on Physical examination, the prolapsed gland appeared as a smooth, red mass protruding from the medial canthus. A total of 5 male and 3 female dogs were presented. Schirmer tear test was performed in all cases to assess reflex tear production. A course of preoperative topical anti-inflammatory medication was suggested in cases of significant inflammation of the affected gland.

Morgan's pocket technique was used to surgically reposition the prolapsed gland in all the cases. In one particular case, which was a referred case of recurred prolapsed gland, Morgan's pocket technique was combined with intranictitans tacking for the better outcome

Surgical treatment and post-operative care