Predictors of long-term success and failure in primary and revision endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy.

BACKGROUND: Although endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (endo-DCR) is a common treatment of nasolacrimal duct obstruction, little is known about the determinants of surgical success and failure. The purpose of this study was to identify patient- and technique-specific factors that may influence surgical outcomes of primary and revision endo-DCR. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of 596 patients who underwent endo-DCR over a 30-year period (1989-2018). Patients' demographics and surgical techniques were assessed. RESULTS: Among the cohort of patients (n = 478) who underwent primary endo-DCR, 10% (n = 48) required revision surgery. Patients who failed primary DCR tended to be younger (p = 0.015) and were less likely to have chronic sinonasal inflammation on histopathology (p = 0.047) than the successful surgery group. After adjusting for patient demographics and comorbidities, the occurrence of a postoperative complication was significantly associated with primary DCR failure (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; p = 0.032). Among the cohort of patients (n = 118) who underwent revision endo-DCR, 8.5% (n = 10) required additional revision surgery. Patients who failed revision DCR tended to be younger (p = 0.022), more likely to have had intraoperative laser usage (p = 0.031), and more likely to have had an intraoperative complication (p = 0.013) than the successful revision surgery group. Endo-DCR failure was not associated with smoking status, middle turbinate resection, or intraoperative visualization of the internal common punctum (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: An understanding of factors associated with primary and revision endo-DCR failure can help to inform preoperative counseling, intraoperative surgical technique, and postoperative care in the treatment of patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

Epiphora after nasolacrimal duct fracture in patients with midfacial trauma: A retrospective study.

The aim of this study was to identify the factors related to occurrence of epiphora or requirement of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in patients with midfacial trauma.We performed a retrospective analysis of the medical records of 1038 patients with midfacial trauma from January 2005 to December 2015. Fifty-one patients (55 cases) diagnosed with nasolacrimal duct (NLD) fracture using facial bone computed tomography were enrolled. Correlation analysis was performed of patient- and injury-related factors, including age, sex, facial trauma etiology, accompanying injury, type and level of the NLD fracture, and time from injury to initial surgery, with the occurrence of epiphora and requirement for DCR.Epiphora occurred in 14.5% and DCR was performed in 5.5% of the patients with NLD fracture. The correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship among the factors with the occurrence of epiphora and requirement for DCR.In patients with midfacial trauma and NLD fracture, epiphora occurred in 14.5% and endoscopic DCR was performed due to persistent epiphora in 5.5% and its result was all successful.

The outcomes of 326 external dacryocystorhinostomy operations in children with dacryostenosis - 30-year experience of an oculoplastic surgeon / Os resultados de 326 operações de dacriocistorrinostomia externa em crianças com dacrioestenose - 30 anos de experiência de um cirurgião oculoplástico

ABSTRACT Purpose: To report demographic features and surgical outcomes of 320 children undergoing external dacryocystorhinostomy for dacryostenosis. Methods: We performed a retrospective evaluation of the records of patients aged <16 years who underwent external dacryocystorhinostomy. Patient demographic features and success rates of the operations were analyzed from the data records. Children with <12-month follow-up were not enrolled in the study. Results: We identified 326 operative records of 320 children (162 [50.6%] girls and 158 [49.4%] boys) who underwent external dacryocystorhinostomy with a mean follow-up of 26.03 ± 11.11 months. Overall, we evaluated 116 (35.6%) cases of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Our series demonstrated a 99.4% success rate for external dacryocystorhinostomy. Conclusions: External dacryocystorhinostomy in children has a high success rate if performed by an experienced oculoplastic surgeon.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar as características demográficas e os resultados cirúrgicos em 320 crianças submetidas à dacriocistorrinostomia externa para dacrioestenose. Métodos: Foi realizada uma avaliaçãodos prontuários de pacientes com idade <16 anos submetidos à cirurgia de dacriocistorrinostomia externa. Características demográficas do paciente e taxa de sucesso das operações foram analisadas a partir dos registros de dados. Crianças com menos de 12 meses de acompanhamento não foram incluídas no estudo. Resultados: Foram identificados 326 registros operatórios de 320 crianças (162 [50,6%] meninas e 158 [49,4%] meninos) que foram submetidas à dacriocistorrinostomia externa com um seguimento médio de 26,03 ± 11,11 meses. No geral, avaliamos 116 (35,6%) casos de obstrução congênita do ducto nasolacrimal. Nossa série demonstrou uma taxa de sucesso de 99,4% para a dacriocistorrinostomia externa. Conclusão: A dacriocistorrinostomia externa em crianças tem uma alta taxa de sucesso se for realizada por um cirurgião oculoplástico experiente.

Preferred practice patterns in endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy among oculoplastic surgeons in Asia-Pacific region.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to report the preferred practice patterns in endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EnDCR) among oculoplastic surgeons practicing in the Asia-Pacific region. METHODS: A detailed survey with 40 questions was electronically disseminated among oculoplastic surgeons practicing in Asia-Pacific region. The mailing list included targeted members of the Asia Pacific Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and nonmembers from the contact directories of the two senior authors. Data collected include demographics, training, surgical techniques, postoperative care, and outcomes. RESULTS: The majority of surgeons performed a preoperative nasal endoscopy (76.2%, total respondents (n) = 122), and most preferred a general anesthesia for endoscopic DCRs (51.9%, n = 104). The majority of surgeons believed in preserving nasal mucosal and the lacrimal sac flaps and adjunctive endoscopic procedures were performed when required (58.4%, n = 101). Routine lacrimal sac wall biopsy for histopathology was not a preferred practice. The practice of routine silicone intubation was more common than the use of topical adjunctive. The majority of surgeons (52.6%, n = 97) took 31-60 minutes to complete a unilateral endoscopic DCR. Postoperative routine nasal douching and ostium cleaning were not widespread practices. The self-reported outcomes were good. CONCLUSION: A significantly high percentage of oculoplastic surgeons from Asia-Pacific perform endoscopic DCR. Although the range of practice patterns is wide, there is increasing uniformity in surgical techniques with regard to endoscopic DCR as compared to the previous surveys.

[Prognostic value of lacrimal duct diagnostics after tube removal : Retrospective analysis of risk of relapse during the first postoperative year after transcanalicular lacrimal duct surgery with silicone tubing]. / Prognostische Aussagekraft der Tränenwegsdiagnostik nach Intubatentfernung : Retrospektive Analyse des Rezidivrisikos im ersten postoperativen Jahr nach transkanalikulärer Tränenwegschirurgie mit Silikonschlauchintubation.

BACKGROUND: Transcanalicular lacrimal duct surgery has become more important over the past two decades. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to prove the prognostic value of postoperative lacrimal syringing and the testing of spontaneous drainage of lacrimal fluid immediately after tube removal. METHODS: A total of 110 cases with postoperative lacrimal syringing and 183 cases with verification of the postoperative lacrimal fluid drainage performed between January 2001 and August 2008 were retrospectively evaluated. The indication for postoperative diagnostics was set by the investigator. The prognostic value of these two procedures was determined by using prognostic parameters (positive predictive value, PPV; negative predictive value, NPV) and analyzing recurrence nonexistence via Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier estimator. The observation period was limited to 12 months. Predominantly, recurrence was defined on the patient's satisfaction and absence of symptoms, which was determined with the help of a questionnaire. RESULTS: Postoperative verification of the lacrimal syringing is a suitable instrument to estimate surgical success within the first year after lacrimal surgery with a PPV of 92.31%. Testing of the spontaneous drainage of lacrimal fluid after tube removal reached a PPV of 63.33%. CONCLUSION: The proven prognostic value shows that syringing of the lacrimal duct and verification of spontaneous drainage should be integrated into postoperative care in a standardized manner. Hereby, early information for the patient about the expected result of the surgical procedure is enabled.

A survey of management of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction by pediatric primary health care providers in Spain.

PURPOSE: To survey the management of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) by pediatric primary health care providers in Spain. METHODS: This was a descriptive study using a web-based questionnaire to evaluate the perceptions of the members of the Pediatric Primary Care Society in Castilla-León, Spain (APAPCYL), regarding management of CNLDO. The questionnaire contained 14 direct questions and was sent by e-mail to all the pediatricians. All the responses were analyzed by the frequency of occurrence and percentages. RESULTS: Ninety physicians responded to the questionnaire. Massage 2 or 3 times a day was the initial treatment advised by 60.47% of pediatricians. Nearly half of the pediatricians recommended continuing massage until symptoms resolved. Fewer than 50% of children required referral to an ophthalmologist. Reasons for an ophthalmic consult included persistence of symptoms among 87.21% of pediatricians and parental/guardian request among 10.5% of pediatricians. According to 45.6% of pediatricians, their knowledge about CNLDO is limited, and 92.2% would like to receive further training on CNLDO. CONCLUSIONS: Massage was the main initial treatment for managing CNLDO among pediatricians. The outcomes of this survey indicated that massage fails in fewer than 50% of patients and an ophthalmic referral is required for these cases.

[Concretions and iatrogenic foreign bodies in the lacrimal system : Treatment recommendations]. / Konkremente und iatrogene Fremdkörper der ableitenden Tränenwege : Therapeutische Empfehlungen.

BACKGROUND: Deposits (dacryoliths or foreign bodies) inside the lacrimal system can cause chronic inflammation and recurrent lacrimal stenosis. Furthermore, dacryoliths can occur due to chronic inflammation. OBJECTIVE: Considering typical clinical courses, the different localizations and surgical options for removing deposits from the lacrimal system are demonstrated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 1451 lacrimal surgeries in 1131 patients was performed. Fourteen representative lacrimal surgeries of 11 patients were retrospectively analyzed in terms of current complaints, prior surgery, and the performed surgical intervention. In three cases, histologic findings of removed dacryoliths were assessed. The surgical approaches are described using precise photodocumentation. RESULTS: In 220 lacrimal surgeries (15.2 %), dacryoliths were detected. Iatrogenic foreign bodies were found in 0.8 % (n = 12). All chosen patients suffered painful chronic inflammation of the lacrimal system. Localization was either intrasaccular or intracanalicular. In 10 eyes, surgery was performed using a transcanalicular dacryoendoscope, either alone or in combination with another method. An external approach (transcutaneous/transconjunctival) was performed in 4 patients. Regarding the whole study population, dacryoliths were found in 16.9 % (n = 91) of dacryocystorhinostomies, in 14.6 % (n = 77) of dacryoendoscopies, and in 35.6 % (n = 52) of canaliculotomies. CONCLUSION: Foreign bodies and dacryoliths are important differential diagnoses in the treatment of chronic dacryocystitis. Different surgical approaches are possible and should be available for treatment. Patients' history often reports prior lacrimal surgery.

Dacriocistorrinostomía externa: resultados en un año de experiencia en Villa / External dacryocystorhinostomy: outcomes achieved in one-year experience in Villa Clara province

Objetivo: describir los resultados de la cirugía dacriocistorrinostomía externa en un año. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo longitudinal prospectivo en 25 pacientes, 28 ojos. Se consideraron las variables sexo, color de piel, edad, lado afectado, etiología, complicaciones y resultados de la cirugía. Resultados: hubo 7 pacientes masculinos y 18 femeninos; de ellos, 16 blancos y 9 no blancos con una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p= 0,043). La edad promedio fue de 69 ± 11 años. En 13 pacientes (52,0 por ciento) se afectó el lado izquierdo y en el 68,0 por ciento la etiología fue involutiva con significación estadística (p= 0,0003). El sangramiento transoperatorio se presentó como complicación en el 24,0 por ciento de los pacientes. El 92,0 por ciento refirió mejoría de la sintomatología después de operados. Según el criterio del cirujano, la mejoría objetiva se obtuvo en el 88,0 por ciento de los casos. La dacriocistorrinostomía externa fue más frecuente en mujeres blancas encontradas entre su sexta y séptima década de vida. El lado izquierdo fue el más afectado con predominio de la etiología involutiva. Las complicaciones fueron escasas; dentro de ellas predominó el sangramiento transoperatorio. Conclusiones: la mayoría de los pacientes sintieron mejoría después de la cirugía; el criterio del cirujano estuvo a favor de los resultados positivos en la cirugía dacriocistorrinostomía externa(AU)

Objective: to describe the results of external dacryocystorhinostomy surgery in one year. Methods: a prospective, longitudinal descriptive and observational study was conducted in 28 patients from 25 patients. The study variables were gender, race, age, affected side, etiology, complications and surgery outcomes. Results: there were 7 male and 18 female patients, 16 Caucasians and 9 non-Caucasians with statistically significant difference (p= 0,043). The mean age was 69 ± 11 years. The obstruction involved the left side in 13 patients (52 percent) and involution was the main etiology in 68 percent with statistical significance (p= 0,0003). Perioperative bleeding was the main complication (24 percent). In the group, 92 percent said the symptoms had reduced after surgery, and according to the surgeon, objective improvement was attained in 88 percent of cases. Conclusion: external dacryocystorhinostomy was more frequent in Caucasian women aged 60 to 70 years. The left side was the most affected, with prevailing involution etiology. There were minimum complications, being perioperative bleeding predominant. Most of the patients felt better after surgery and the surgeon´s criteria were in favor of the positive results of this surgery(AU)

[The Interdisciplinary Conference on Lacrimal System Disorders of ophthalmic and ENT surgeons at the University Hospital Halle : An analysis of present patient material]. / Die interdisziplinäre Tränenwegskonferenz von Ophthalmo- und Rhinochirurgen am Universitätsklinikum Halle (Saale) : Eine Auswertung des bisherigen Krankenguts.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The lacrimal system (LS) crosses regions of ocular adnexa, the nose, and the paranasal sinuses. Surgery of disorders requires a targeted ophthalmologic and otolaryngologic examination. Since 2013, an Interdisciplinary Conference on Lacrimal System Disorders (ICLSD) has existed at the University Hospital Halle. First results of our experiences with this cooperation between ophthalmic and ENT surgeons are presented. METHODS: In a retrospective study at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle, all patients aged 22-80 years (n = 43, 10 with bilateral manifestation; mean age 65.1 years) having had a consultation in ICLSD between February 2013 and May 2015 were analyzed. Thereby, 53 LS were included in the descriptive evaluation. RESULTS: The main relevant pathology in terms of ophthalmologic manifestation was chronic dacryocystitis and its complications (n = 42), whereas nasal septum deviation (n = 11) and chronic rhinosinusitis (n = 10) were the most frequent otorhinolaryngologic pathologies. Prior to consultation, ENT (n = 34) and/or ophthalmic surgery (n = 40) had been performed. During ICLSD, an individualized therapeutic regime for each patient was developed. Surgery was required in 43 out of 53 LS. Of these, 32 were mainly ophthalmic, 11 mainly ENT interventions. At the time of evaluation (median 3 months; range 1 to 24 months), 29 out of 38 patients (76.3 %) were free of complaints. CONCLUSION: Since 2013, competences of ophthalmic and ENT surgeons have been integrated in ICLSD for advanced diagnosis and therapy of lacrimal disorders at the University Hospital Halle. Encouraging functional results are shown in this study, as most patients have had a long and complicated history of lacrimal system disorders. ICLSD enables interdisciplinary patient care.

[External Dacryocystorhinostomy--Analysis of Patient Material of the University Hospital Halle from 2000 to 2011]. / Die externe Dakryozystorhinostomie--eine Analyse des Krankenguts der Universitäts-Augenklinik Halle der Jahre 2000-2011.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this retrospective study was to collect additional data on the long-term success (LTS) of external dacryocystorhinostomy (ext-DCR) and the impact of pre-, intra- and postoperative factors on the surgical outcome. This was intended to increase the precision of the indication for DCR. METHOD: A retrospective, non-comparative study was conducted on 637 ext-DCR due to dacryocystitis performed at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle. This included all surgical interventions on patients of at least 11 years of age. Using standardised questionnaires and patient records, 60.75 % (n = 387) of patients were surveyed. Follow-up was 1.0 to 12.0 years (mean, 4.0 years). RESULTS: Analysis of patient satisfaction showed satisfactory (20.2 %) and very satisfactory (74.2 %) results. LTS was 94.4 % (n = 365). Factors negatively influencing postoperative outcome were prior surgical interventions of nose and/or sinus, previous ext-DCR and transcanalicular lacrimal surgery. Surgical outcome was positively influenced by lacrimal sac size and lacrimal stenting. Large saccus lacrimales and use of monocanalicular intubates improved LTS. CONCLUSIONS: LTS of ext-DCR shows very good results, thus underlining its superiority to other surgical approaches. Special attention should be paid to diseases and previous surgical interventions on the nose and/or sinus that effect the lacrimal duct system. Therefore, a special committee of ENT physicians and ophthalmologists has been established at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Halle. From the surgical point of view, it is important to create an adequate mucosal anastomosis using lacrimal and nasal mucosa. Restoration is possible with lacrimal stent materials. The indication for ext-DCR was restricted by competition with transcanalicular endoscopic interventions to preserve physiological lacrimal drainage.

[Traumatic Lacrimal Duct Stenosis: Demographics and Success Rate of Surgical Procedures for Secondary Treatment]. / Traumatische Tränenwegsstenosen: Epidemiologie und Erfolgsraten nach sekundärer operativer Intervention.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic lacrimal duct stenosis can be the result of sharp trauma of the eyelid, indirect trauma or surgery in the nasoorbital region, as well as burns, chemotherapy and radiation of the facial region. The aim of the study is to present the demographics, patient satisfaction, and course of different surgical procedures for secondary treatment of traumatic lacrimal duct stenosis. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 50 patients who required surgery for traumatic lacrimal duct stenosis from 2009 to 2011 at the University Eye Hospital in Muenster. The evaluation included the following criteria: age, sex, duration of symptoms, complication rate and the rate of recurrence. We systematically evaluated the medical data and asked the patients about the recent symptoms via telephone questionnaire. RESULTS: 60 eyes of 50 patients were included (18 women; 32 men; age: 51.8 ± 17.1 years); 34 eyes (56.7 %) had already had operations of the lacrimal system. The success rate was 58.1 %. The mean postoperative follow-up was 52.3 ± 10.7 months. In 11 cases (18.3 %), a dakryocystorhinostomy (DCR) was necessary. CONCLUSION: Traumatic lacrimal stenosis is more common in men, and has a poorer prognosis than lacrimal duct stenosis from other causes.

Dacriocistorrinostomía endoscópica: experiencia de 4 años del Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile / Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy: four years experience at the Clinical Hospital of the University of Chile

Introducción: La dacriocistorrinostomía abierta es el gold estándar para el tratamiento de la obstrucción nasolacrimal, patología manifestada como epífora crónica, dacriocistitis y conjuntivitis recurrente. Desde el desarrollo del abordaje endonasal, se ha considerado como una alternativa terapéutica eficaz con notorias ventajas respecto a la técnica abierta y que además ofrece la posibilidad de corregir otras alteraciones de la nariz y cavidades paranasales en el mismo tiempo quirúrgico. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados de la técnica quirúrgica endoscópica según la realidad del Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, durante los años 2010-2014. Determinar la etiología de la obstrucción en los pacientes intervenidos. Material y método: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo con revisión de fichas clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de obstrucción de la vía lacrimal sacular y postsacular sometidos a dacriocistorrinostomía endoscópica. Se incluyeron 27pacientes entre los cuales se realizaron 33 cirugías, ya que 22,2% de ellos (6/27) fueron sometidos a intervención bilateral. Resultados: El éxito quirúrgico objetivo y subjetivo se presentó en 75,8% (25/33) y 65,4% (17/26) respectivamente. El 7,4% (2/27) presentaron complicaciones intraoperatorias (falsa vía y extrusión de grasa orbitaria) y 18,5% (5/27) complicaciones posoperatorias (sinequias y fibrosis). Dentro de las causas destacan: idiopática 66,7% (18/27), postraumática 14,8% (4/27), secundaria a utilización de radioyodo 11,1% (3/27), granulomatosis de Wegener3,7% (1/27)y congénita 3,7% (1/27). La sonda instalada se mantuvo por un promedio de 3,5 meses, y el seguimiento se realizó por un periodo de 7,4 meses. Conclusión: La dacriocistorrinostomía endoscópica resulta ser una excelente herramienta quirúrgica para el manejo de pacientes con diagnóstico de obstrucción nasolacrimal, siendo un procedimiento exitoso, seguro, con baja tasa de complicaciones y una muy buena evolución posoperatoria, recomendado para todos aquellos casos con mala respuesta a las terapias médicas.

Introduction: Open dacryocystorhinostomy is the gold standard for the treatment of nasolacrimal obstruction, pathology manifested as chronic epiphora, recurrent dacryocystitis and conjunctivitis. Since the development of endonasal approach, it has been considered as an alternative therapy with notable advantages over the open technique and offers the possibility to correct other abnormalities of the nose and paranasal sinuses in the same surgical time. Aim: To evaluate the results of endoscopic surgical technique according to the reality of the Clinical Hospital of the University of Chile, during the years 2010-2014. Determine the etiology of the obstruction in patients undergoing surgery. Material and method: A retrospective cohort study was performed with review of clinic files of patients diagnosed with lacrimal duct obstruction submitted to an endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy. 27 patients were included and 33 surgeries were performed, as 22.2% of them (6/27) underwent bilateral intervention. Results: Objective and subjective surgical success occurred in 75,8% (25/33) and 65,4% (17/26) respectively. 7,4% (2/27) had intraoperative complications (false passage and orbital fat extrusion) and 18,5% (5/27) postoperative complications (fibrosis and synechiae). Among the causes are: idiopathic 66,7% (18/27), postraumatic 14.8% (4/27), history of radioiodine use 11.1% (3/27), Wegener's granulomatosis 3.7% (1/27) and congenital 3.7% (1/27). Probe Installed was kept for an average of 3,5 months, and the follow-up was performed for 7,4 months. Conclusions: Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is an excellent surgical tool for the management of patients with nasolacrimal obstruction. It's a successful procedure, with low rate of complications and good postoperative outcome, recommended for those cases with poor response to medical therapies.

Combined Lacrimal Passage Probing and Tobramycin/Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Ointment Infiltration: A Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedure for Incomplete Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction.

The optimal treatment strategy for an incomplete nasolacrimal duct obstruction (INDO) is still being debated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the treatment results of combined lacrimal passage probing and tobramycin/dexamethasone ophthalmic ointment infiltration (PIO, Probing and Injection) for INDO.In this retrospective, noncomparative case series, 397 consecutive adult patients with INDO treated at Shanghai Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital were enrolled. Records of the patients were reviewed. With the help of a modified 23-gauge lacrimal cannula, the PIO surgery was performed for the INDO-identified patients. The main outcome measures were resolution of tearing and complications. The relationship between successful outcome and clinical characteristics was analyzed.The surgery was performed successfully in all of the enrolled cases. No intraoperative complications were found in the procedure. The average follow-up time was 7.9 months. Three hundred patients (75.6%) experienced complete resolution of their symptoms after the surgery. Ninety-seven patients (24.4%) showed a partial improvement (1.8%), no improvement (18.4%), or a worsening of symptoms (4.3%). Of the 97 surgical-failure patients, 90 required silicone intubation or external dacryocystorhinostomy, and 94% were finally resolved. The most common postoperative complications were mild nasal bleeding in 41 patients, drug residues in 12 patients (6 developed the complete obstruction), and a slit punctum in 8 patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that unilateral eye onset, not having a discharge at baseline, and not having postoperative drug residues were significant factors determining successful outcome.The PIO surgery is an effective, safe, timesaving, easy-to-perform, and minimally invasive technique for treating INDO.

Incidence of neoplasia in patients with unilateral epiphora.

BACKGROUND: Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is common and is usually a result of benign stricture formation.Although neoplasia near or around the lacrimal system may produce epiphora, the incidence of neoplasia from within the lacrimal system as a cause of nasolacrimal duct obstruction is not well documented. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed on all patients undergoing dacryocystorhinostomy with a history of epiphora. The incidence of patients with operative findings of intra-lacrimal neoplasm was sought. Histopathologically confirmed cases were included. RESULTS: The study comprised 537 patients, who underwent a total of 631 endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy procedures between January 1998 and July 2013. Non-stenotic causes of nasolacrimal duct obstruction were encountered in 3.01 per cent of dacryocystorhinostomy procedures, and included neoplastic, inflammatory and infectious pathologies. Inverted papilloma was the most common cause, encountered in 0.79 per cent of dacryocystorhinostomy operations. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that neoplasia is an uncommon but not a rare cause of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Surgical teams performing high numbers of dacryocystorhinostomy procedures should be aware of such pathology and patients counselled appropriately.

Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction: common management policies among pediatric ophthalmologists.

PURPOSE: To study common management policies of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNDLO) among pediatric ophthalmologists. METHODS: A 21-question survey was sent to members of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus in April 2014. The questions focused on treatment of CNLDO during the first year of life, primary and secondary surgical interventions, surgical techniques, and amblyopia assessment. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-seven members completed the survey and 121 responses were analyzed after replies of 6 candidates in training were excluded. Eighty-two percent of respondents instructed caregivers to massage the nasolacrimal duct during the first year of life; however, 55% did not perform the Crigler massage in the office. Outpatient probing was done by 17% of pediatric ophthalmologists who took the survey, almost all of whom (95%) have been in practice more than 10 years. Ninety-one percent recommended surgery for CNLDO close to the age of 1 year and 79% performed probing as initial treatment at that age. If treatment is delayed to the age of 2 years, 53% favored silicone tube intubation and/or balloon dacryoplasty. Following failed probing, silicone tube intubation was performed by 51% of practitioners. Ninety-one percent of respondents routinely checked refraction of infants with CNLDO and recommended reexamination even if initial assessment was entirely normal. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the striking lack of consensus among pediatric ophthalmologists in many aspects of management of CNLDO and allows practitioners to compare their practice patterns regarding CNLDO management with those of their peers; however, because it provides only the opinions of a limited group of pediatric ophthalmologists, it does not imply that less common practices are wrong.

Powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy: a decade of experience.

PURPOSE: To report a decade long experience with powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). METHODS: A retrospective review of all consecutive patients undergoing powered endoscopic DCR was performed at this institution over a period of 11 years from 2002 to 2013. All patients completed a minimum of 3 months follow up following stent removal. Patient records were reviewed for demographic data, clinical and surgical profiles, adjunctive procedures, complications, and success rates at the last follow up. Anatomical success was defined as patent ostium on irrigation and functional success as free flow of dye into ostium on functional endoscopic dye test and resolution of epiphora. RESULTS: Two hundred eighty-three powered endoscopic DCRs were performed on 214 patients. The mean age at surgery was 59.5 years (range, 3-95 years). All patients presented with epiphora. A total of 91.6% patients (196/214) had a primary DCR and 8.4% (18/214) had a revision DCR. In all, 50.4% patients (108/214) underwent adjunctive endonasal procedures. The mean follow up was 17.1 months (range, 3-103 months). At the last follow up, the final anatomical success was achieved in 96.9% cases of primary DCRs and 91.3% cases of revision DCRs. Functional success was achieved in 93% cases of primary DCRs and 86.9% cases of revision DCRs. CONCLUSIONS: Powered endoscopic DCR is a safe procedure and offers excellent results both in primary and revision DCRs. The threshold to perform adjunctive endonasal procedures should be very low when indicated.

[Dacryocystorhinostomy as part of the interdisciplinary treatment of lacrimal duct]. / Dakryozystorhinostomie nach West in der interdisziplinären Behandlung von Tränenwegsstenosen.

INTRODUCTION AND METHODS: Epiphora, which leads to blurry vision, is the leading symptom for intra- and/or postsaccal lacrimal duct stenosis. Due to the anatomy of the tear duct system, which lies between the fields of ophthalmology and otorhinolaryngology, and due to newly available techniques in interventional radiology to diagnose and treat patients with intra- and postsaccal lacrimal duct stenosis, various methods for diagnosis and treatment are available. We report the results of 107 patients who underwent endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) between 2005 and 2011. RESULTS: Prior to the DCR, dacryocystography was performed in 95 of the 107 patients. In 68 of these 95 cases, balloon dilatation was unsuccessful. Histological examination of 64 patients showed chronic inflammation in 61 patients, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was diagnosed in 2 patients and aspergilloma in1 patient. Over a follow-up time of 6 months to a maximum of 7 years we revised 15 of 107 patients, due to reocclusion after removal of the stent. None of these patients showed recurrence of epiphora. DISCUSSION: In comparison to transcutaneous DCR, endonasal DCR has certain benefits: it is less invasive, no visible scars occur because of the endonasal approach, and the function of the lacrimal pump remains uneffected. Furthermore, the possibility of co-treatment of endonasal pathologies during DCR exists. We observed no serious adverse events in our study group and the success rate was similar to other studies.

Current preferences and reported success rates in dacryocystorhinostomy amongst ASOPRS members.

PURPOSE: Success rates for endoscopic and external dacryocystorhinostomy vary widely (external 70-95%; endonasal 59-99%). We investigated surgical preferences and reported success rates in dacryocystorhinostomy amongst American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery members. METHODS: This retrospective study utilized a questionnaire sent to American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery members. Information culled included number of cases performed, surgical approach, and results. RESULTS: 214 (38% response rate) surveys were completed, representing over 7,054 cases in one year. 93.9% of respondents offer external dacryocystorhinostomy; 63.1% offer endonasal. Surgeons report an increased rate of post-operative tearing with endonasal versus external (35.6% versus 5.8%, p < 0.001) and post-operative dacryocystitis with endonasal versus external (13.2% versus 1.0%, p < 0.001). The top reasons for choosing endoscopic DCR were patient preference, no visible scar, and prior failed DCR. The top reasons for choosing external DCR were higher success rate, physician preference, and more long-term data on outcome. The majority of members use bicanalicular Crawford tubes (76%). Tubes were most commonly removed during post-operative months 2 (34.6%) and 3 (36.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Despite papers reporting equivalent success rates between external and endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy, more American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery members perform greater numbers of external dacryocystorhinostomy, prefer external dacryocystorhinostomy, and report a higher success rate with this approach.

[Dacryocystorhinostomy in adolescents and young adults]. / Dacriocistorrinostomía en adolescentes, jóvenes y adultos.

OBJECTIVE: To study the relative frequency, causes, anatomical and functional outcomes and complications of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in patients between the second and fifth decade of life. METHOD: A retrospective, nonrandomized, interventional study of a clinical series of 12 patients who underwent DCR from March 2007 to March 2009, performed by a single surgeon, with an age range between 10 and 48 years. Recorded data included age at surgery, date of surgery, gender, affected side, cause of obstruction, surgical technique, outcome and complications. The relative frequency of such cases over the total was calculated. RESULTS: DCR in patients between 13-48 years old represented 14.11% of the total (12:85). In this group 88.8% were females and in 75% surgery was on the right side. The most frequent cause of obstruction was low idiopathic obstruction (58.33%) whereas 41.66% were secondary. An external DCR was performed on 66.67% of patients and the rest were endonasal DCR. Anatomical success was achieved with resolution of symptoms in 91.6% of patients. One case had a hypertrophic scar. CONCLUSION: Adolescents and young adults represent a significant percentage of cases undergoing DCR surgery. Both the external and endoscopic approach is shown to be a valid alternative for treating these patients, with good results and low incidence of complications.

Efficacy of endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy, using 'cold steel' instruments without stenting, in treatment of distal nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of an endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy technique using conventional instruments, without the use of any adjunctive techniques. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, non-randomised, cohort study. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with nasolacrimal duct obstruction between January 2006 and December 2008 were included in the study. Seventy-eight endonasal dacryocystorhinostomies (primary or revision) were performed with conventional 'cold steel' instruments. The technique involved complete exposure and marsupialisation of the lacrimal sac. No adjunctive procedures were used. Success was defined as complete resolution of epiphora and a patent lacrimal system, evaluated by lacrimal irrigation and endoscopy, one year post-operatively. RESULTS: Seventy-four of the 78 cases were symptom-free after a minimum follow up of 12 months, giving an overall success rate of 94.9 per cent. The success rates for primary and revision cases were 95.5 and 90.9 per cent, respectively. CONCLUSION: Meticulous surgical technique can ensure high success rates with the use of conventional cold steel instruments, without the use of adjunctive procedures, making endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy a cost-effective, reliable procedure.