A cataract is any cloudiness within the lens of a dog’s eye, which impedes light from reaching the retina as explained by an ophthalmologist in Melbourne at Dr Anton van Heerden clinic. While, generally, the condition leads to blurred vision, in more severe cases, cataracts have been known to cause blindness in dogs. The only method to treat the condition is to perform a type of dog eye surgery which specifically targets cataracts. However, older dogs might need laser eye surgery instead of the conventional one. To know more information about laser eye surgery for humans, visit MorningtonEye.com.au website today.
Surgery
Currently, there’s no known method for making a dog’s eye lens clear. As a result, the only therapeutic avenue presently available to counteract cataracts is surgery. The opening phase of cataract surgery is centered on a method called phacoemulsification, in which the cataract is shattered and removed through a tiny incision in the eye. The next phase involves implanting an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens, into the space created by the removal of the natural lens.
Cataract surgery is an incredibly delicate procedure wherein even the smallest error can have hugely significant consequences. To minimize risk, the surgery is conducted using a high-magnification operating microscope. For humans who have cataracts, check with Armadale Eye Clinic’s cataract surgeon in Melbourne to find out more.
Which dogs make good candidates for surgery?
First off, it should be noted that since small cataracts may only have a negligible impact on a dog’s vision, that surgery is not suitable in all cases of cataracts.
The first step toward determining a dog’s suitability for surgery involves assessing their general health. This involves conducting a blood screening. If a dog’s overall health satisfies the minimum preoperative requirements, they will then undergo laser eye-specific tests. Firstly, an ocular ultrasound is performed in order to check the posterior part of the dog’s eye for anomalies. Then, a dog’s electroretinogram response is measured to determine the functionality of their retina. If a dog passes both tests they are then cleared for surgery. 
Dogs will be deemed unsuitable for cataract surgery if they suffer from retinal detachment, glaucoma, or severe eye inflammation.
Success Rate
In this regard, the first thing to note is that a replacement intraocular lens cannot fully replicate a natural lens’ performance. As such, cataract surgery cannot restore perfect vision. However, following surgery, 95% of dogs do regain their vision immediately. Moreover, the longer-term prognosis is also positive, with 90% of dogs retaining vision 1-year after surgery. After 2-years the percentage success rate drops slightly to 80%.
The most common complications of surgery are chronic inflammation, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.
Recovery
Generally, the recovery period from dog eye surgery for cataracts lasts for 2 weeks. During this time frame, dog owners should closely follow a number of recommendations. Firstly, a recovering dog should wear an E-collar at all times. Secondly, a recovering dog should be restricted to leash-walks exclusively. Thirdly, dog owners should assiduously administer oral medication and eye drops to their dogs.
Generally, once the initial recovery period is over then the use of eye drops can be gradually phased out over time. However, this isn’t always the case and occasionally indeed dogs may require eye drops for the rest of their lives.
Aside from dogs, we as humans can book a consultation to the Dr Ed Ophthalmologist Melbourne clinic for eye related concerns.
