Abstract
Background: Persistent nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) often requires treatment by probing, intubation, or balloon dacryoplasty. Refractory cases have been managed by external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), which leaves a scar; however, this procedure is generally avoided in young children. Endoscopic DCR has been successfully performed in adults and described in children. We report the success of this procedure in a series of pediatric patients. Methods: A retrospective review of all endoscopic lacrimal procedures performed in a 3-year period was undertaken. Seventeen children (22 ducts) with persistent NLDO after at least one failed probing, with or without silicone tube placement, underwent endoscopic DCR. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 36 months, and success was defined as resolution of tearing and discharge by follow-up clinical evaluation and by parental history. Results: All but 2 patients (88%) with NLDO showed complete resolution of tearing and discharge. These 2 patients had recurrent symptoms after the Crawford tubes were removed and required revision endoscopic DCR. No complications from this procedure were noted. Conclusions: Endoscopic DCR is a safe and effective means of treating persistent NLDO in infants and young children when simple probing, intubation, or balloon procedures have failed. The team ophthalmology-otolaryngology endoscopic approach provides a highly successful alternative for patients with a persistent distal obstruction that might otherwise require an external procedure.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 143-147 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Journal of AAPOS |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 2001 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
- Ophthalmology