Introduction

• Frequent topical administration (up to 12-24 times/day) is not well tolerated by most horses and is often impractical to carry out without the use of continuous irrigation systems.
• These systems consist of an indwelling tube lavage or delivery system and a medication reservoir with a pump or flow-controlling device allowing continuous perfusion.
• Two basic tube delivery systems exist:
  • Subpalpebral lavage - optimal choice.
  • Nasolacrimal duct retrograde irrigation system.

Uses

• Continuous or frequent administration of topical medication.
• Medication with third eyelid flap Third eyelid: flap or temporary tarsorrhaphy Eyelid: tarsorrhaphy - temporary performed.
• Animal uncooperative to treat because of temperament or ocular pain.

Advantages

• Allow frequent or continuous, reliable administration of medication to the eye.
• Minimal handling and restraint required once in place.
• Less risk of damage to eye, horse or handler.

Disadvantages

• Comparatively expensive.
• Some skill and cost required in placement.
• May need replacement if damaged or migrate.
• Incorrect placement can → corneal damage and conjunctival irritation (subpalpebral).
• May encourage administration of multiple drugs together.
• Horse may need to be kept relatively confined to avoid damaging the system.

Requirements

Preparation

Procedure

Aftercare

Outcomes

Further Reading

Publications

Refereed papers

• Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.
• Malho P (2012) Practical tips on subpalpebral lavage system placement in horses. UK Vet 17 (1), 9-11 VetMedResource.