
Complete pupillary dilation will occur in 10–15 minutes and will last 8–12 hours in the dog. Then, dilate the pupils with 1–2 drops of tropicamide (Mydriacyl®). First, make certain the animal does not have glaucoma.

In this author’s opinion, proper technique for direct ophthalmoscopy is more difficult than indirect technique. This author is a strong advocate of indirect ophthalmoscopy (versus direct) and she strongly encourages her audience attendees to master this technique for routine examination of the small animal patient. Ability to routinely and reliably evaluate the posterior segment of the eye is essential in any patient with a visual disturbance or for which the differential diagnose includes systemic infectious disease, vascular disorder, hypertension, or central nervous system disease. Normal fundic findings can be highly variable and are influenced by the animal’s species, breed, age, and coat color. As viewed ophthalmoscopically, those components (from the inner to the outer aspects of the globe) are the retina, choroid, and sclera. The fundus is a composite picture formed by the 3 basic tunics of the vertebrate eye (neurosensory, vascular, and fibrous) superimposed on one another. Is it normal or abnormal? If abnormal, is it an addition or a subtraction? Okay, now I can get an image in focus, but what does it mean?Ī. Provide an overview of techniques with indications, advantages, and disadvantages of each methodĤ. What technique should I be using to get a good look at the posterior segment of my canine or feline patient?Ī.

This lecture aims to answer the following frequently asked questions and provide practical tips to help ensure good posterior segment ophthalmoscopic skills.Ģ. Finally, the large variation in normal fundus appearance, especially in the canine species, adds to the complexity of this important diagnostic tool. Second, the normal anatomical relationships of fundus structures are often not well-understood, making interpretation difficult. First, for some individuals, proper ophthalmoscopic techniques can be difficult to master. Books & VINcyclopedia of Diseases (Formerly Associate)Īppropriate examination of the fundus is often the most challenging aspect of the complete ophthalmic exam for many veterinarians.VINcyclopedia of Diseases (Formerly Associate).
