Outcomes and Complications Associated with Superior and Inferior Subpalpebral Lavage Treatment Systems Placed in 61 Equine Eyes (2004-2021).

The research studied the outcomes and complications related to subpalpebral lavage (SPL) treatment systems in horses’ eyes. The results suggested that the position of the SPL system, whether in the superior or inferior eyelid, didn’t significantly affect complication rates. Nevertheless, researchers favored the lower lid placement due to fewer complications and ease of use.

Objectives of the Study

• The study’s primary objective was to evaluate the efficiency and complications associated with superior and inferior Subpalpebral Lavage (SPL) treatment systems for horses.
• The researchers were particularly interested in understanding whether the location of the treatment systems would have an impact on the rate of complications experienced during treatment.

Research Method

• The study was retrospective, reviewing clinical records of all horses admitted to the National Veterinary School of Alfort from January 2004 to October 2021 that required an SPL treatment system to administer ophthalmic medications.
• Sixty horses were included in the study, representing 61 SPL treatment systems. These SPL systems were either placed in the superior (upper) eyelid or inferior (lower) eyelid.

Study’s Findings

• The research found that 86.9% of the cases had an uneventful treatment outcome, i.e., without complications, while a minor percentage (13.1%) encountered complications.
• When comparing the location of the SPL system, there were significant differences in complication rates. Seven complications were reported for upper eyelid systems, and only one complication was reported for lower eyelid systems.
• The identified complications included iatrogenic corneal ulceration, palpebral abscess, overgrowth of conjunctiva over the footplate, and palpebral cellulitis.
• The median time of SPL treatment system use was reported as 7.5 days.

Conclusion of the Study

• Although the complication rates were not significantly different between the superior and inferior eyelid SPL systems (P= .06), the researchers favor the lower lid placement.
• This preference was due to two reasons: the easier placement and removal process of the system and a lower incidence of complications in this location observed in the study.