Use of automated central lamellar superficial keratectomy in the treatment of chronic pigmentary superficial keratitis in dogs

ABSTRACT Pigmentary superficial keratitis (PSK) is a chronic corneal disorder with different causes, which may include immune-mediated diseases and reactions to ultraviolet rays. This study aimed to evaluate the use of automated central lamellar superficial keratectomy (ACLSK) in the treatment of chronic pigmentary superficial keratitis (CPSK) in dogs. We enrolled 24 animals with CPSK and loss of visual function even after clinical treatment with preserved post-corneal transparent media, and the potential for recovery of visual function after surgical treatment. The microkeratome was positioned on the eye surface, and the central corneal lamellae were obtained after translation. With ACSLC, 21 animals (87.5%) recovered their visual function. In 3 animals (12.5%), the formation of granuloma and posterior central leukoma in the cornea compromised the transparency of the visual axis. This study concludes that ACLSK is a viable surgical alternative for the restoration of visual function in dogs with severe PSK, thus improving their quality of life. The short execution time of this procedure reduces the costs and anesthetic risks.