Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy for acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy performed to treat acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of the outcome of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy performed in the conventional manner (i.e. without power instruments or laser) to treat acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

SUBJECTS: Outcomes for 300 patients with acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction were evaluated. Cases with congenital or traumatic blockages were excluded. All the cases were evaluated for nasolacrimal duct blockage by the syringing and regurgitation test. Surgery was performed under local anaesthesia with sedation. Follow up was conducted by syringing and nasal endoscopy, up to one year. Results were compared with published data for endoscopic and external dacryocystorhinostomy.

RESULTS: Outcomes were evaluated subjectively using patient symptoms, syringing results and endoscopic appearance. All cases were symptom-free following endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy. Revision surgery was performed in 18 cases. Stents were placed in 10 patients, of which two developed granulations. Septoplasty was performed in 25 cases to gain access to the lacrimal sac area.

CONCLUSION: The results were comparable with published data for endoscopic and external dacryocystorhinostomy.