Clinical evaluation of the pocket technique for replacement of prolapsed gland of the third eyelid in dogs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome and complications of the pocket technique in the repositioning of the prolapsed third eyelid gland in dogs. From 28 dogs, 38 eyes with protrusion of the third eyelid gland were treated using the pocket technique. Of the dogs, 22 (79%) were less than 1 year of age when the prolapse was first noted by the owner. Protrusion of the glands in both eyes was found in 10 of the dogs (36%). The success rate of surgical replacement was 97% (37 eyes). The complication rate was 13.15%. The pocket technique does not alter tear production or the morphology of the third eyelid gland ducts; therefore, this procedure can be used on the prolapse of the third eyelid gland without damaging the gland’s duct system. Based on the results of this study, it was concluded that the pocket technique can be considered as a reliable procedure for the repositioning of a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid.