COURSE DESCRIPTION

BEVA survey constituted up to 10% of clinical cases seen in practice. In addition, the eye is regularly examined as part of insurance or pre-purchase examinations with the clinician commonly having to make decisions as to the significance of ophthalmic findings. Finally, examination of the eye is an important part of the complete physical and neurological examinations, with the ophthalmic findings often giving a clue as to the underlying disease or problem.  The importance of ophthalmology to the clinician undertaking equine work is therefore undeniable and yet most veterinarians received only limited training in this area whilst in vet school or as a young assistant. This practically-oriented course is intended to help equine clinicians learn about the most important and common problems in the equine eye, to gain confidence in how to deal with these conditions and how to interpret their findings. Extra time will be available after lectures for discussion and attendees are encouraged to interact with the speakers in open and frank conversations.

In the mornings the following topics will be covered in highly illustrated lectures and case presentations :

• Equine ophthalmic examination: Basic examination & sample collection
• Diagnostic ultrasonography and infrared imaging
• 3Corneal ulcers and wound healing
• Ocular and adnexal neoplasia
• Diagnosis and treatment of equine uveitis: managing expectations
• Equine glaucoma & cataracts

In the afternoons, 7 hours of practical sessions will give attendees plenty of opportunity to put theory into practice on live horses and equine specimens and to ask questions in small groups (2 – 4 attendees), all under the supervision of specialists. Attendees will rotate through the following practical sessions: 

• Ophthalmic Procedures – Nerve blocks, lavage system placement, aqueocentesis, intravitreal injections etc.
• Basic Surgical Techniques – Enucleation, eyelid laceration repair, temporary tarsoraphy, corneal laceration, conjunctival grafts etc.
• Ocular Ultrasound - live horses
• Examination of Horses with Eye Problems
• Pre-Purchase Examination Case Discussions

The combined talents and extensive experience of the team of internationally renowned equine ophthalmologists involved with this course, along with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, will stimulate attendees to assimilate knowledge, to put it into practice in small groups and to discuss these very important clinical problems in the horse and pony. 

The course fee includes lunches, coffee/tea breaks, extensive course notes and a certificate of attendance.  On the evening of the first day all attendees are invited to attend the wine & cheese reception. Attendees can choose to only attend the lectures (= Lectures Only) on this course or can register for the entire course (= Lectures & Practical Sessions).  Early course registration is recommended as there are only a limited number of places available due to the highly practical nature of this course.

This course is suitable for RCVS Modules:  B-EP.3;  C-E.4;  C-E.5;  C-E.15;  C-E.16