Traction suture fixation technique using a capsular tension ring fragment for severe lens displacement during cataract surgery in dogs.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the traction suture fixation technique for severely displaced lenses (≥180°) using a capsular tension ring (CTR) fragment during cataract surgery in dogs, and to retrospectively investigate its clinical outcomes.

ANIMALS STUDIED: Eight dogs (nine eyes).

PROCEDURES: The medical records of dogs with severe lens displacement (≥180°) due to cataracts that underwent traction suture fixation during cataract surgery using a CTR fragment at the Grand Animal Hospital (Hyogo, Japan) between November 2019 and September 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. The retrieved data included the signalment, type of CTR, and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS: A single CTR fragment was used to fix the capsular bag to the sclera in six eyes, and two CTR fragments were used at two sites in three eyes. The lengths of the CTR fragments used were 1 one-fifth fragment, 3 one-fourth fragments, and 8 one-third fragments. Postoperative complications included uveitis (nine eyes), glaucoma (one eye), posterior iris adhesion (one eye), corneal ulcer (one eye), and intracorneal stromal hemorrhage (one eye). Vision was maintained in all dogs during the follow-up period (2 months to 2 years and 8 months) without recurrent capsular bag displacement.

CONCLUSIONS: This technique can correct and stabilize capsular bag displacement relatively easily through a small incision during cataract surgery in dogs with severe lens displacement. Intraocular lens implantation was also possible.