COMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH USE OF A ONE-HOLE SUBPALPEBRAL LAVAGE SYSTEM IN HORSES - 150 CASES (1977-1996)

Objective-To determine type and frequency of complications associated with use of a one-hole subpalpebral lavage (SPL) system in horses. Des ign-Retrospective study. Animals-150 horses with 156 SPL systems. Proc edure-Signalment, primary complaint, method used for placement, time S PL system was in place, and complications were retrieved from medical records. Results-Complications were not associated with placement, mai ntenance, or removal of 66 of 156 (42%) SPL systems. A minor complicat ion was reported in association with 53 (34%) SPL systems, and a serio us complication was reported in association with 37 (24%). The 3 most common minor complications were mild swelling of the eyelid (31 horses ), tearing of SPL system tubing (20), and loss of the injection cap (3 0). Serious complications included problems with the SPL system requir ing its premature removal and possible replacement (26 horses), remova l of the SPL system by the horse (6), infection of the eyelid (4), los s of the footplate in the eyelid (5), and cornea ulceration (1). Clini cal Implications-Proper attention to the size of the footplate and pla cement of the SPL system in the eyelid should decrease the risk of ser ious complications. Minor eyelid swelling should be expected in the fi rst 48 hours after SPL system placement.