Equis ISSN 2398-2977
Eye: drug administration 02 - topical
Contributor(s): Joe Bertone, Alison Clode, Paul Gerding, Graham Munroe
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
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Preparation
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Procedure
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Aftercare
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Outcomes
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed papers