McKenzieExtension

The McKenzie Extension is a surgical procedure primarily used in veterinary ophthalmology to address certain types of entropion in dogs. Entropion is a condition where the eyelid, typically the lower eyelid, rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This can lead to irritation, pain, infection, and potentially serious vision impairment.

The McKenzie Extension, also known as the "eyelid tacking" procedure, involves placing sutures to pull the affected eyelid margin away from the eyeball. The goal is to temporarily reposition the eyelid so that it turns outward, allowing the cornea to heal and preventing further damage. This technique is often employed in younger animals with developmental entropion, as it can provide a stable correction while the animal's facial structure continues to grow and mature.

This surgical method is considered a less invasive approach compared to some other entropion correction surgeries. The sutures are typically left in place for a period of a few weeks and are then removed. While effective in many cases, the success rate can vary, and in some instances, a more permanent surgical correction may be required later in the animal's life if the entropion persists or recurs. It is a common and valuable tool for veterinarians managing eyelid abnormalities in companion animals.