The Tear Film's Three Layers:
The tear film is not just a simple liquid covering the eye; it is a complex structure composed of three essential layers:
1. The inner mucin layer, responsible for adhesion and spread of tears.
2. The middle aqueous layer, providing nutrients, oxygen, and lubrication.
3. The outer oily layer, ensuring stability and longevity of the tear film.
The Role and Function of the Tear Film:
The tear film is a multi-functional marvel that serves various critical roles:
1. Lubrication for smooth eye movement.
2. Hydration to keep the eye moist and comfortable.
3. Nutrition delivery, including oxygen, protein, and electrolytes.
4. Mechanical protection for the cornea.
5. Healing support through growth factors and antimicrobials.
When is Tear Film Impacted?:
During Anesthesia:
Anesthesia can have a significant impact on tear production in animals. Known as treatment-induced impairment of tear production, this effect can last for hours or even days post-anesthesia. Reduced tear production can lead to dry eye and discomfort for the patient. To combat this issue, Eye Lube Pro was developed, containing 20% more hyaluronic acid than the leading alternative. This increased concentration provides enhanced lubrication and protection during and after surgical procedures. Petroleum ointments, while commonly used, may not be ideal for regular use due to their greasy texture.
Benefits of Eye Lube Pro:
- Contains 20% more hyaluronic acid than Optixcare™ for enhanced hydration.
- Traditional hyaluronic acid and carbomer-based solution.
- Ideal for lubrication during surgical procedures with its 20ml format tube.
- Bulk lube formula offers a value-based approach to long-term lubrication.
- Manufactured by Sentrx Animal Care in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Dry Eye, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (or KCS), is
a common condition in dogs.
Dry Eye is a very common disease. Five percent of all dogs are impacted by KCS where the dog’s own immune system attacks the tear gland. The tear gland is not able to produce the tears it needs. Prevalence is higher at 20% of those predisposed breeds (brachycephalic – such as boxers, bulldogs, and terriers).
WHAT ARE THE TWO VERSIONS OF DRY EYE?
Understanding Dry Eye:
Dry Eye is a prevalent condition affecting many pets, particularly dogs. There are two versions of Dry Eye:
a) Quantitative Dry Eye, where tear production is insufficient.
b) Qualitative Dry Eye, characterized by issues with tear film composition.
Three Keys to Dry Eye Treatment:
Effective Dry Eye treatment involves:
1. Managing the underlying disease.
2. Treating infections.
3. Using artificial tears and tear supplements strategically.
Please click here to find a valuable treatment resource.
The Dry Eye Solution - BioHanceTM for Ocular Hydration:
BioHance™ is a new bio-engineered, cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) that enables linear HA to be arranged into a scaffold. The cross-linking allows HA to be less easily degraded which prolongs its action and stability on the ocular surface.
The Importance of Amino Acids in Ocunovis Procare Formulation:
Amino acids play a crucial role in supplementing tears when tear film quality or quantity is compromised. OcunovisTM Procare formulation ensures optimal eye nutrition and hydration.
What Are Corneal Ulcers?:
Corneal ulcers are surface wounds that result in the loss of the corneal epithelium. They can be classified as simple or complicated, with the latter involving deeper layers of the cornea and potential infection. Diagnosing corneal ulcers involves a comprehensive ophthalmic examination to determine the underlying cause and guide treatment decisions.
What Are Some Causes of Corneal Ulceration?:
These conditions commonly lead to a reduction in corneal health and may lead to corneal ulceration (not an exhaustive list):
1) Trauma
2) Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) is a quantitative tear film deficiency disorder that is most commonly seen in dogs as an immune mediated condition.
3) Euryblepharon (aka Macropalpebral Fissure) is a congenital condition where the eyelid fissure is larger than normal and causes increased scleral exposure.
4) Euryblepharon (aka Macropalpebral Fissure) is a congenital condition where the eyelid fissure is larger than normal and causes increased scleral exposure.
5) Entropion is most commonly a developmental condition where the eyelid margin is inverted, potentially leading to secondary trichiasis, blepharospasm, epiphora, enophthalmos, secondary conjunctivitis, and ulcerative keratitis.
6) Trichiasis is a developmental condition where the eyelid hairs, or facial hairs, are abnormally positioned towards the cornea. This is especially common in brachycephalic breeds.
7) Ectopic Cilia is a condition where there is abnormal growth of cilia through the palpebral conjunctiva.
Treatment for Simple Ulcers:
Simple, superficial corneal ulcers can be managed with topical antibiotics, pain relief medication, tear stimulants, hyaluronic acid supplements, and preventive measures like E-collars. Re-evaluation is crucial to monitor healing progress and consider further interventions if needed. Please click here to find a valuable treatment resource.
Management of Complicated Ulcers:
Deep stromal ulcers, descemetoceles, and melting corneal ulcers require specialized care and may necessitate referral to a board-certified ophthalmologist. Aggressive treatment strategies, including surgical intervention, are essential for stabilizing these complex ulcers and preventing further complications.
Hyaluronic Acid for Corneal Health:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) plays a vital role in supporting corneal health and wound healing. HA-containing tear products mimic natural tear viscosity and improve hydration and lubrication of the cornea. Cross-linked HA formulations offer extended retention on the cornea, reducing the frequency of application while promoting faster healing of corneal ulcers.
Benefits of Cross-Linked HA:
Cross-linking HA molecules creates a polymer network that enhances HA's retention properties and reduces enzymatic degradation. Studies have shown that cross-linked HA aids in corneal wound healing and can be a valuable treatment option for patients with tear film deficiency disorders and conditions predisposing the cornea to ulceration.
Clinical Application of Oculenis:
OculenisTM, a hyaluronic acid eye drop solution, is designed to provide better lubrication and coverage to the eye, particularly in cases of wounds, ulcers, post-ocular surgery, or chemical burns. With a longer-lasting 0.75% HA formula, Oculenis promotes increased pet owner compliance by reducing application frequency and does not interfere with antibiotics like serum-based products.
Don’t take our word for it. Hear from Dr. Joshua Broadwater DVM, DACVO about his opinion of a variety of uses for the complete ophthalmology line of Sentrx products!
In veterinary ophthalmology, the intricate structures of the eye and the essential role of the tear film often demand specialized care and attention. As we've explored the layers of the tear film, causes of Dry Eye and Cornel Ulceration, and revolutionary solutions like BioHance™ and Sentrx Animal Care Ophthalmology Products, it becomes clear that advancements in eye care are transforming the way we approach ocular health in our patients. By leveraging innovative products like Eye Lube Pro, Ocunovis™ Procare, and OculenisTM, veterinarians and pet owners alike can rest assured that their pets will receive the best possible care for their precious eyes. Let's continue to prioritize eye health and well-being in our animal companions, guided by science, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine.
Visit sentrxanimalcare.com/learnmore to view our clinical studies, product guides, and videos.
