Is it best to enucleate standing or under GA?

Introduction

Enucleation refers to surgical removal of the globe, conjunctiva and nictitating membrane [1]. It is a procedure which effectively treats a variety of conditions, removes pain and allows horses to return to a variety of occupations after unilateral enucleation [2]. Once the decision is made to remove the eye, the question becomes ‘Is it best to enucleate standing or under general anaesthesia?’. There is a progressive shift away from general anaesthesia towards standing procedures to eliminate the risks associated with general anaesthesia. The surgical procedure itself has the potential to lead to an increased risk of poor recovery from anaesthesia, bradycardia, movement during surgery [3,4] or cardiac arrest. Surgeon preference, technique familiarity, temperament and safety for the patient and staff and cost are often the driving forces behind the method of choice for eye removal. […]