Surgery of the Nictating membrane

(third eyelid)

The following surgical drawings have been reproduced from GA Severin: "Severin's Veterinary Ophthalmology Notes" 3rd Ed, 1996. By the permission of Dr. GA Severin.

Pocket Technique for repositioning prolapsed gland of the third eyelid

a. Frontal and cross-section view.

b. If the cartilage is severely curved, then conjunctiva of the palpebral surface can be incised and the cartilage cut in the area of curvature.

c. One cm incisions made above and below the gland.

d. Side view showing pocket that the gland will be repositioned into.

e. Suturing incisions together to repostition the gland in the pocket. After the continuous pattern is completed, oversew with a Lembert pattern and then bring the suture to the anterior surface of the third eyelid, so it can be tied to the free end as shown in the diagram.

f. Gland repositioned and knots on anterior surface of third eyelid.