~ Cherry Eye ~
PROLAPSE
OF THE TEAR GLAND OF THE THIRD EYELID
Provided by Wendy C.
Brooks, DVM, DABVP
of the
Mar Vista Animal Medical Center
Reprinted
with Permission ~ 22 May 2000
The
normal canine eye receives its tear film from two
lacrimal (tear-producing) glands. One gland is
located above the eye and the other is found within the
animal's third eyelid. The gland of the third
eyelid contributes a significant portion of secretion to
the tear film.
In the
smaller breeds -- especially Boston Terriers,
Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs and Beagles -- the
gland of the third eyelid is not strongly held in
place. The gland prolapses out to where the
owner notices it as a reddened mass. Out of
its normal position, the gland does not circulate
blood properly and may swell.
TREATMENT ~
REMOVAL OF THE GLAND
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In older times, the prolapsed gland was
treated like a small tumor; it was simply removed.
This was before the full significance of the gland was
realized.
If the
third eyelid's tear gland is removed, it cannot be
put back. If the other tear gland cannot supply
adequate tears (not uncommon in older small breeds) then
treatment for "dry eye" must be
instituted. Not only is dry eye uncomfortable for
the pet, its treatment is often frustrating and
time-consuming. We would like the dog to maintain
the greatest amount of functioning tear producing tissue
possible and this means replacing the gland in its proper
location.
| TREATMENT
- REPLACING THE GLAND This
surgery is the only acceptable treatment of
"Cherry Eye." Here, the gland is
gently sewn back into place where it can resume
tear production. The patient stays in our
hospital over night so that the suture position
may be checked in the morning.
This
surgery is notorious for failure, meaning that
the tear gland may re-prolapse. If, after
surgical repair, the Cherry Eye recurs, we
recommend that the second surgery be performed by
a specialist in Veterinary Ophthalmology. Should
this need arise your veterinarian should assist
you with the necessary paperwork transfer and
referral.
The
American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists
also has a web site which includes an index of
veterinary eye specialists. This site may be
visited at: http://www.acvo.com
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