An evaluation of intracapsular lens extraction and transcorneal lens reduction for treatment of anterior lens luxation in dogs.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate success rate, complications, and outcomes in dogs with anterior lens luxation (ALL) treated with intracapsular lens extraction (ICLE) or transcorneal lens reduction (TCLR).

Procedure: Medical records of dogs with ALL undergoing ICLE or TCLR from 2014 to 2021 were reviewed. Signalment, presenting complaint, history, ophthalmic examination findings, short-term complications, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results: There were 20 ICLEs and 31 TCLRs; however, some cases were included in both groups. One ICLE was unsuccessful and four had undergone TCLR first, leaving 15 ICLEs. Three TCLRs were unsuccessful, four were lost to follow up, and three subsequently underwent ICLE due to recurrent ALL, leaving 21 TCLRs. Anterior uveitis was more common following ICLE than TCLR, p < .001 The frequencies of other short-term complications (post-operative hypertension and corneal ulceration) were not statistically different between groups. Median follow-up was 256 and 48 days for ICLE and TCLR, respectively. Vision was retained in 7/10 (70%) eyes following ICLE and 4/9 (44%) eyes following TCLR, p = .34. Enucleation was recommended for fewer eyes following ICLE (2/15 [13%]) than TCLR (7/21 [33%], p = .47). In total, lens extraction was achieved in 19/20 (95%) ICLEs and lens reduction was achieved in 28/31 (90%) TCLRs. Anterior lens luxation recurred in 10/24 (41%) TCLRs.

Conclusions: The present study adds data to the current knowledge base regarding the treatment of ALL in dogs and highlights the need for future prospective studies containing a larger number of animals to help inform treatment decisions for dogs with ALL.