Surgical Enucleation of the Right Eye Following Traumatic Injury in an Eastern Screech–owl (Megascops asio)

Abstract

Surgical enucleation using a transaural approach was successfully performed following traumatic globe injury in an Eastern screech–owl (Megascops asio). Initial stabilization of this patient consisted of intraosseous administration of crystalloids and hypertonic saline, anti–inflammatory drugs, and broad–spectrum antibiotics. At surgery, general anesthesia was achieved using butorphanol as a premedicant and isofluorane in oxygen as an induction and maintenance anesthetic agent. Postoperative care included meloxicam for 7 days, trimethoprim/sulfadiazine for 14 days, and topical wound management. The surgical site healed in an uncomplicated manner. The bird was successfully flight tested and eventually released back into its natural habitat. Considerations for release and permanent captive placement in raptors with unilateral vision impediments are discussed.