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In this episode, host Alyssa Watson, DVM, welcomes back DJ Haeussler, DVM, MS, DACVO, to talk about his recent Clinician’s Brief article, “Diamond Burr Debridement for Indolent Corneal Ulcers.” Dr. Haeussler starts by reviewing all the practical details about indolent ulcers, including how to diagnose them and initiate treatment. Then, for the cases that don’t respond, he explains when and how to perform diamond burr debridement using a dental handpiece.
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Key Takeaways
An indolent ulcer is defined as a chronic nonhealing, superficial ulcer characterized by loose corneal epithelium, and it typically happens in dogs 6 years of age and older.
Boxers are ~7 times more likely to develop indolent ulcers, and French bulldogs and Corgis are also breeds to watch out for.
Once you suspect an indolent ulcer, start appropriate topical antimicrobials (eg, ofloxacin and Terramycin) and dry debride with a swab; consider referral if it’s not responding by 3 weeks.
For this procedure, sedate the patient, numb the cornea, dry debride with a swab again to clear away new loose epithelium, then carefully debride the ulcer bed with a large round diamond burr for ~30-45 seconds.
Have some bandage contact lenses on hand to apply afterward, follow up at 2-week intervals, and prepare the client that the other eye is at risk.
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The Team:
Alyssa Watson, DVM - Host
Alexis Ussery - Producer & Multimedia Specialist