NEODYMIUM-YTTRIUM-ALUMINUM-GARNET LASER TREATMENT OF CYSTIC GRANULA IRIDICA IN HORSES - 8 CASES (1988-1996)

Objective-To determine clinical features of cystic granula iridica in horses and outcome of horses treated with an ophthalmic neodymium:yttr ium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. Design-Retrospective study. Animal s-8 horses. Procedure-An ophthalmic Nd:YAG laser was used to deflate c ysts in all horses. Results-Horses were examined because of visual imp airment (n=5), decreased jumping performance (2), or head shaking (1). Clinical signs associated with cysts resolved in all horses after tre atment. Short- and long-term complications did not develop, and cysts did not recur. Clinical Implications-Cystic granula iridica may cause vision impairment in horses. Treatment with an ophthalmic Nd:YAG laser appears to be safe and effective.