Ophthalmology

Veterinary ophthalmology is mainly a surgical discipline although eyes are also treated medically or with a combination of these techniques. The decision to treat cases medically or surgically is based on the individual patient's problems and needs, as well as the clients' and referring veterinarian's wishes. Our goal is to resolve any ophthalmic problem the patient has so that preventative and general health programs can be continued at the referring practice once the eye treatment is complete.

Ocular and periocular tissues are varied and include the skin of the eyelids, the specialised thin skin that covers most of the eyeball (conjunctiva), the third eyelid (a specilised shield that contains an accessory tear gland), the cornea and inner structures such as the iris, the lens and the retina. All these different tissues are extremely delicate and can be affected by disease. Ocular problems are just as varied in their nature and include congenital as well as acquired problems. The dermoid seen in the middle picture to the left of the screen is a congenital problem that requires surgical removal. The top right picture shows a corneolimboconjunctival transposition performed in a cornea that was ulcerated as a result of dry eye. This surgery repairs the ulcer while allowing the visual axis to remain clear, thus minimally affecting vision. Common problems veterinary ophthalmologists work with on a daily basis include management of ocular and adnexal neoplasia, uveitis, retinal degeneration and cataracts. The top left picture was taken during cataract surgery performed in a Great Dane. Most patients do not require hospitalisation unless they require surgery. Cataract surgery patients, for instance, usually only remain in hospital for one or two days. In exceptional cases the hospital stay may need to be slightly longer.

When a patient and owner arrive at North Kent Referrals, they will be greeted by our administration staff at the front desk. Shortly after the client is seen by one of our ophthalmologists who will consult with them, examine the patient and discuss the most appropriate treatment modalities available in a relaxed atmosphere during an initial consult of one hour's duration.

Warren Road
Blue Bell Hill
Kent ME5 9RD
Tel: 01634-666655
Fax: 01634-672572
email:enquiries@northkentvets.com
VAT Reg. No. 720 2966 48