2007-08: Project Two
Will synthetic corneal implants work in cats and dogs?
Drs. Bruce Grahn and Lynne Sandmeyer (WCVM) and Dr. May Griffith (University of Ottawa).
Blinding corneal disease is a common problem in cats and dogs. Veterinary ophthalmologists rely on corneal transplants to treat affected animals, but it’s expensive and difficult to maintain corneal banks for animals.
As an alternative, two WCVM scientists will work with a researcher at the University of Ottawa to test the use of synthetic corneas that are stronger, more resilient and flexible enough to cover the full range of transplantation needs in companion animals.
In the project’s first stage, veterinary ophthalmologists will implant synthetic corneas in rabbits, and if these models are successful, then the team will conduct synthetic corneal transplants in five dogs and cats that have been diagnosed with severe corneal disease.
Throughout the year after surgery, researchers will regularly assess each patient’s recovery and determine whether synthetic corneal transplants are successful in restoring vision without significant ocular complications.
