Editorial Type:
Article Category: Research Article
 | 
Online Publication Date: 01 Dec 2011

Phacoemulsification for Removal of Bilateral Cataracts in a Black Water Monitor (Varanus salvator macromaculatus)

DVM,
DVM, DACVO,
DVM, MS, DACVO, and
DVM
Page Range: 96 – 100
DOI: 10.5818/1529-9651-21.4.96
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Abstract

A 16-yr-old intact male, captive-born Black Water Monitor, Varanus salvator macromaculatus, was presented for evaluation of bilateral lens opacities. Examination showed bilateral cataracts, with blepharospasm, uveitis, and absence of vision in the left eye. Phacoemulsification was successfully performed on the left eye, and at six weeks postoperative, the animal was found to be visual in that eye and had complete healing of the surgical site. The right eye had phacoemulsification performed seven months later with similar results. The monitor made a full recovery and continues to have normal ocular examinations.

Keywords: Black water monitor; cataract; eye; phacoemulsification; surgery; Varanus salvator macromaculatus
Copyright: © 2011 Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery 2011
Figure 1.
Figure 1.

Mature cataract in the left eye. Photo credit Grahm Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Figure 2.
Figure 2.

Immature cataract in the right eye. Photo credit Terah Webb, DVM, DACVO.

Figure 3.
Figure 3.

Left eye four months postoperative. Photo credit Grahm Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Figure 4.
Figure 4.

Right eye 18 months postoperative. Photo credit Grahm Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

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