Long-Term Results of Closed Nasolacrimal Intubation in Adults

Abstract

Purpose Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is the standard surgical treatment for adult nasolacrimal duct obstruction. There have been relatively few studies of closed nasolacrimal duct intubation in adults. The aim of this study was to determine rates of anatomic patency following this procedure. Methods The authors carried out a survey of all patients undergoing closed nasolacrimal duct intubation as a primary procedure over a period of 3 years and 4 months. There were 32 eligible patients of whom 20 attended for review. Results A total of 75% of these cases had patent drainage after follow-up of between 6 months and 3 years. The proportion of patients with persistent patency after intubation was the same regardless of length of follow-up. Conclusions The minimally invasive procedure of lacrimal intubation may have a role in some adults with nasolacrimal duct obstruction.