Signs of corneal ulceration

• Increased blinking
• Squinting
• Ocular discharge/watery eyes
• Rubbing of the eye
• Discolouration to the surface of the eye

Treatment options

There are two main treatment options for your dog which will be discussed during the consultation. Factors to consider
when choosing the treatment options are: your dogs’ temperament; suitability for an anaesthetic; finances and your
personal preference.

Diamond burr debridement: This is commonly carried out with just topical local anaesthesia during the consultation. A
diamond Burr is used to remove the loose epithelial edges of the ulcer and to break through the abnormal underlying
layer. This allows new epithelial cells to form and ‘stick’ to the stromal layer so the ulcer can heal. Most cases will heal
after a single treatment, however ~15% of cases will require a repeat procedure after about 2 weeks.

Superficial keratectomy: This is a surgical procedure that is performed under a general anaesthetic. Using an operating
microscope, the abnormal superficial layer of stroma is removed to allow the reformation of normal epithelial cells on
top. This procedure is almost 100% successful however it is not always recommended as the first line of treatment
because of the need for general anaesthesia (carrying its own risks), cost implications and increased likelihood of
corneal scarring.

Aftercare

For all treatments, your dog will require eye drops and oral medication including antibiotics and pain relief. A buster collar must be worn to prevent self-trauma until the ulcer is healed. A recheck appointment should be made 10-14 days post treatment.

A contact lens may also be applied to the surface of the eye to improve comfort, but this may not be possible in every case.

When applying eye drops, ensure the applicator tip is kept clean and do not allow it to contact the surface of the eye.

Complications

• Failure to heal
• Infection
• Scarring