08/07/2024
Dr. Herrmann performing cataract surgery on our tiny patient Zoe.
Cataract surgery is typically performed when vision is significantly impaired (i.e. blindness occurs). The two most common forms of cataracts in dogs are:
1. breed-related, suspected to be caused by inherited genetic defects, and
2. changes in lens metabolism caused by diabetes mellitus.
Surgery can be performed in one or both eyes. There is an ideal "stage" of cataracts that improves the chance of a favorable outcome–the cataract is dense enough to cause vision problems, but is not too advanced to have caused intraocular structural damage. Should the cataracts be very advanced, the lens starts to shrink and scar, or the lens may even break open. This can result in additional risk of surgical complications due to increasing inflammation in the eye, and also reduces the chance of being able to place a prosthetic lens into the eye.
Successful cataract surgery can improve the quality of life for our patients by returning functional vision. It is so rewarding to see our patients being able to enjoy chasing their ball, catching their favorite treats, or seeing the squirrels across the street once again.