BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: There are different techniques for reconstructing traumatic canalicular lacerations. The aim of this study is to report the surgical outcome with the Mini-Monoka monocanalicular stent (FCI Ophthalmics, Issy-Les Moulineaux, France). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with traumatic canalicular lacerations who underwent surgical reconstruction using the Mini-Monoka monocanalicular stent were included. The surgical outcome was based on subjective (epiphora) and objective (tear meniscus level, dye disappearance test, and lacrimal irrigation) findings after stent removal. RESULTS: Nineteen patients (15 males, 4 females; mean age: 34 years) were included. The upper canaliculus was injured in 5 cases and the lower in 14 cases. Successful stenting was accomplished in all cases. Postoperative eyelid position was satisfactory in most patients. The mean period of stenting was 5 months and the mean postoperative follow-up period was 13 months. There were no cases of premature stent extrusion. Functional drainage after stent removal was normal in 94.7% of patients. Syringing showed full patency with no narrowing or reflux. CONCLUSION: The Mini-Monoka monocanalicular stent is an effective tool in reconstructing traumatic canalicular lacerations. It is easy to use, carries a minimal risk of injury to the non-lacerated canaliculus, and results in high anatomical and functional success rates. Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: There are different techniques for reconstructing traumatic canalicular lacerations. The aim of this study is to report the surgical outcome with the Mini-Monoka monocanalicular stent (FCI Ophthalmics, Issy-Les Moulineaux, France). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with traumatic canalicular lacerations who underwent surgical reconstruction using the Mini-Monoka monocanalicular stent were included. The surgical outcome was based on subjective (epiphora) and objective (tear meniscus level, dye disappearance test, and lacrimal irrigation) findings after stent removal. RESULTS: Nineteen patients (15 males, 4 females; mean age: 34 years) were included. The upper canaliculus was injured in 5 cases and the lower in 14 cases. Successful stenting was accomplished in all cases. Postoperative eyelid position was satisfactory in most patients. The mean period of stenting was 5 months and the mean postoperative follow-up period was 13 months. There were no cases of premature stent extrusion. Functional drainage after stent removal was normal in 94.7% of patients. Syringing showed full patency with no narrowing or reflux. CONCLUSION: The Mini-Monoka monocanalicular stent is an effective tool in reconstructing traumatic canalicular lacerations. It is easy to use, carries a minimal risk of injury to the non-lacerated canaliculus, and results in high anatomical and functional success rates. Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.