Use of free conjunctival grafts in horses: ten cases

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of free conjunctival grafts in the treatment of horses with a range of keratopathies. DESIGN: A retrospective clinical study of ten client-owned horses treated at Murdoch University Veterinary Hospital from May 1996 to September 2001. PROCEDURE: The suitability of patients for the surgical procedure was assessed using a slit lamp biomicroscope and by direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Surgery was performed with the aid of an operating microscope, under general anaesthesia. A subpalpebral ocular lavage catheter was used for administration of topical atropine and antibiotics postoperatively. RESULTS: In all ten horses the affected globe was saved. In nine of the horses vision in the eye was satisfactory 6 months after surgery, and in one horse the eye was blind. Complications included further corneal ulceration or eyelid abscessation and some loss of sutures, although these did not preclude a successful outcome. CONCLUSION: Free conjunctival grafts were successful in treating a range of keratopathies in the horse, and the technique offers a number of advantages over other forms of surgical intervention.