(Subpalpebral Lavage System)

PRICING

• Subpalpebral Lavage System (SPL Tube) Placement $770

What’s Included in Our All-Inclusive Package:

We’ve designed our pricing to be transparent, affordable, and all-inclusive—so you’re not caught off guard by unexpected costs later. Our SPL Tube Placement bundle includes:

      ✅ The procedure itself, performed by experienced veterinarians

      ✅ The SPL Tube itself, required for this procedure

      ✅ Sedation & Medications administered on the day directly related to the procedure (e.g., sedation, pain    relief and antibiotics)

The only items not included are vaccinations, which is required if your horse has not received a complete course of tetanus & strangles or is not up to date with their vaccines and take-home eye medications as these medications can vary depending on the clinical requirement of the patient.

A Subpalpebral Lavage (SPL) Tube is a specialised system used to deliver medication directly to a horse’s eye in a safe, controlled, and effective way. Eye conditions in horses can be challenging to treat due to their size, strength, and sensitivity to handling. An SPL tube offers a practical and low-stress solution for administering frequent or long-term eye treatments.

We offer SPL tube placement as part of our equine ophthalmology services, ensuring your horse receives the care they need while minimising stress and risk.

What Is an SPL Tube?

An SPL tube is a thin, flexible catheter that is surgically placed under the horse’s upper or lower eyelid and exits through the mane or forehead area. It connects to a small injection port where medications can be easily administered without having to touch or manipulate the eye each time.

This system allows for:

• Accurate delivery of medications to the surface of the eye

• Reduced stress for both the horse and handler

• Improved treatment compliance for conditions requiring frequent dosing

• Safer handling of horses with painful or reactive eyes

Why Is SPL Tube Placement Recommended?

SPL tubes are recommended for horses needing frequent, long-term, or intensive eye treatments, especially when applying ointments or drops directly to the eye is difficult or unsafe. Common conditions that may require an SPL tube include:

• Corneal ulcers or abscesses

• Uveitis (intraocular inflammation)

• Severe eye infections

• Post-operative care following ocular surgery

• Trauma-related eye injuries

Without a lavage system, some horses may resist topical medication, potentially leading to incomplete treatment, worsening of the condition, or injury to the horse or handler.

What to Expect During Placement

SPL tube placement is typically performed:

• In-clinic under sedation, using sterile technique

• The tube is inserted through the eyelid and routed to an exit site along the horse’s mane or forehead

• A secure port is attached to allow medication to be administered easily

• The system is taped or stitched in place to ensure it remains stable

The procedure is minimally invasive, and most horses tolerate the system very well. Full instructions on how to use and maintain the tube are provided.

Aftercare and Removal

Once placed, the SPL tube can remain in place for several days to weeks, depending on the condition being treated. During this time, you or your veterinarian can administer medications through the port as directed. We’ll provide guidance on:

• How to administer medication

• Cleaning and maintenance

• Monitoring for signs of irritation or displacement

When no longer needed, the tube is simply removed, and the small insertion sites heal quickly.

Supporting Your Horse’s Eye Health

If your horse is struggling with a serious eye condition that requires frequent treatment, an SPL tube can make a significant difference in their recovery. It allows for effective therapy with less stress, ensures medications are delivered properly, and improves outcomes in challenging ophthalmic cases.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about SPL tube placement or to schedule an eye exam for your horse.

Why We Bundle Our Surgical Pricing

We believe quality veterinary care should be affordable and stress-free. By bundling the full surgical journey into one straight-forward price:

      💡 You avoid unexpected add-on fees

      💰 You get excellent value for a comprehensive surgical care package

      💬 You know exactly what to expect—before, during, and after your pet’s procedure

This unique approach allows us to provide high-quality care at a fair, accessible price, without compromising on the comfort or safety of your pet.