Causes of ectropion
Ectropion in dogs may arise from a number of causes:
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Conformational – the most common presentation, typically due to overlong lower eyelids, weak or absent lateral canthal support, or excessive lateral canthus tension. Seen frequently in breeds such as Bloodhounds, Spaniels, and St Bernards.
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Cicatricial – secondary to scarring, e.g. trauma or chronic inflammation.
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Tractional – neoplastic or space-occupying lesions pulling the lid margin ventrally.
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Neuromuscular – reduced eyelid tone from neurological or muscular disease.
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Endocrine-related – occasionally linked to hypothyroidism.
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Iatrogenic – following overcorrection of entropion.
Surgical management
Surgical approaches attempt to give a more appropriate lid length whilst spreading the peri-ocular tension.
Depending on case presentation, techniques may include:
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Modified Kuhnt–Szymanowski procedure – repositioning of the lateral canthus for improved support.
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Lateral tenotomy – relieving outward traction on the eyelid margin.
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Lateral canthotomy – indicated where entropion and ectropion coexist.
These surgeries will change the animal’s appearance and significant client education and communication pre-op are essential. Sadly, clients often purchase the “look” not realising that it is far from pleasant for the patient.
Aftercare typically involves 2 weeks of leash walking and an elizabethan collar to prevent self trauma to the surgical site. Oral analgesia and occasionally occular treatments may be be dispensed.
The prognosis for patients undergoing surgery is typically very good. As with all procedures, owners should be made aware of the risks associated with the procedure such as wound breakdown, over or under correction, peristant corneal disease (particularly with chronic cases) and the more rare risk of facial nerve dysfunction which is more relevant with surgeries near the lateral canthus.
When to refer
Surgical correction may be beneficial in cases of conformational ectropion with corneal exposure, recurrent conjunctivitis unresponsive to medical management, neoplastic involvement, or complex combined entropion–ectropion.
Referral is straightforward via our online referral form. Please include the patient’s clinical history and relevant images.
Once submitted, our surgeon will review the case and arrange an appointment. During this consultation, the patient will be assessed, the procedure explained, and the treatment options discussed, giving both the surgeon and the owner the opportunity to agree on the most appropriate plan for the patient.
