temporary blindness
 

wondering if anyone has had their yorkie experience blindness after anesthesia for dental surgery. could it be temporary and how long can i hold out hope for sight to return? opthamologist says eyes are good in my 10 year old gracie but possible neuro blockade. going to specialist this week but wondering nervously. thank you

I have never heard of this, but will say a prayer for your precious Gracie to regain her eyesight!

I have heard of this... it goes on a case by case basic as each dog is different and responds differently.... if I can find more info I'll post it.

Have never heard of this happening. Just said a prayer for little Gracie. Hope her sight returns with no problems.

thank you for concern and prayers

When anesthesia is used, it is a mix of anesthesia and oxygen. Also preanesthetics are used just prior to intubation (an endotracheal tube is inserted into the animal's trachea which is then connected to two tanks, one with oxygen and one with anesthetic). Blindness can result from a reaction to the preanesthetic or the anesthetic agents, but more likely will occur as a result of low oxygen, which can occur during surgery.

Normally, procedures are in place where the levels in the tanks are checked/verified before each and every surgery. I have witnessed surgeries where the oxygen tank has malfunctioned, or emptied unexpectedly. This is usually remedied quickly by changing out the tank with the spare tank, which is nearby.

Blindness can also occur due to pre-existing conditions in the animal.

I do not know if the reason for your dog's blindness can be determined, and I found no information on the statistics of permanent vs temporary occurances.

I hope your baby recovers, and that you can get some answers from the specialist.

I do know that dogs are adaptable, and many live comfortably with loss of vision.

Hope this helps, and I'll keep your little one in my prayers.

thank you for effort and research on anesthetic process. Gracie is showing some spunk today and soon I may know more about her condition and sight. much appreciated

I had not heard of it but will keep Gracie in my prayers for her vision to return.

Checking in for an update.... keeping little Gracie in my prayers...

BTW: Welcome to YT! Wish it could have been under better circumstances....