OPHTHALMOLOGY
Since our last newsletter, our
phacoemulsification service has been up and
running and we have successfully restored
many patients’ vision.
Generally, cataracts operated on at an immature
stage have a better chance of long-term success
because there is less pre-existing lens-induced
uveitis and a softer lens, which reduces surgical
time and the use of ultrasound energy. This is
particularly important with diabetic patients
(even if not completely stable) because their
cataracts can progress rapidly.
CT SCANNING
We offer this service as an imaging only referral or as a part of a diagnostic work-up with one of our clinicians.
For an imaging only referral, we will liaise to determine the optimum protocol and images will be transferred to VetCT – a specialist veterinary teleradiology service. A full written report can be provided in as little as 4 hours for urgent cases.
PHACOEMULSIFICATION PROCEDURE
An incision (usually 2.5-3 mm wide) is made at the limbus. Viscoelastic is injected into the anterior chamber to maintain its depth. Anterior capsulorrhexis is performed using a continuous curvilinear technique.
CASE STUDY
Toby presented for further investigation of chronic retching/gagging and halitosis. The owner reported an acute onset of retching/gagging approximately 2 months prior. The signs had continued since this first episode (worse when excited) and there had been no significant response to
antibiotics.
Examination
Toby was bright, and alert and in good body condition. Thoracic auscultation, abdominal palpation and peripheral lymph nodes were unremarkable. There was marked halitosis.
Haematology and biochemistry analysis were unremarkable. Skull/neck CT was performed under sedation and a radiopaque foreign body was identified in the nasopharynx.
Retroflexed endoscopy was performed and confirmed the presence of an irregular, cream coloured foreign body (FB) wedged across the nasopharynx. There was also evidence of marked inflammatory changes in the surrounding tissues.
CARDIORESPIRATORY
Craig Devine continues to visits us fortnightly on a Wednesday. A cardiac work up typically includes blood pressure measurement, echocardiography, electrocardiography, radiographs and blood sampling. Craig also performs bronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage, continuous Holter Monitoring and often makes use of the CT scanner for the investigation of pulmonary disease.
Craig is available for advice on cardiac cases outwith these times.
ENDOSCOPY
We are now offering the following
endoscopy services:
- Rhinoscopy
- Bronchoscopy
- Upper and lower
- gastrointestinal endoscopy
- Otoscopy
- Female cystoscopy