Dilek Yuksel1, Pınar Altiaylik Ozer. 1. Department of Ophthalmology, Ministry of Health, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Hosdere Cad, Cankaya Evleri, E Blok No: 26 Cankaya, Ankara, Turkey, yukseld2000@yahoo.com.
Abstract
PURPOSE: To report the results of soft probing in children with congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, non-randomised interventional study included 158 eyes of 122 children aged 2 months-5 years, with CNLDO. A plastic intravenous catheter sheath supported intraluminally with a guiding metal probe was introduced through the superior canaliculus. During intubation, the plastic cannula was gently introduced through the nasolacrimal system, while the metal probe inside was withdrawn concurrently. After the complete withdrawal of the metal probe, the duct was irrigated with a high pressure saline solution through the plastic cannula. Once the obstruction was totally dissolved and a patent passage was observed, the plastic cannula was withdrawn and the procedure was completed with a nasolacrimal lavage with a gentamycin and dexamethasone combination. RESULTS: Clinically successful results were achieved in 142 eyes (89.8 %). No significant complications occured intraoperatively or postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: In children under age 5, our technique has a high success rate with no significant complications. This method allows probing in a more controlled way. This method may be particularly suitable for surgeons during training, when the most false lumen formation is observed.
PURPOSE: To report the results of soft probing in children with congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, non-randomised interventional study included 158 eyes of 122 children aged 2 months-5 years, with CNLDO. A plastic intravenous catheter sheath supported intraluminally with a guiding metal probe was introduced through the superior canaliculus. During intubation, the plastic cannula was gently introduced through the nasolacrimal system, while the metal probe inside was withdrawn concurrently. After the complete withdrawal of the metal probe, the duct was irrigated with a high pressure saline solution through the plastic cannula. Once the obstruction was totally dissolved and a patent passage was observed, the plastic cannula was withdrawn and the procedure was completed with a nasolacrimal lavage with a gentamycin and dexamethasone combination. RESULTS: Clinically successful results were achieved in 142 eyes (89.8 %). No significant complications occured intraoperatively or postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: In children under age 5, our technique has a high success rate with no significant complications. This method allows probing in a more controlled way. This method may be particularly suitable for surgeons during training, when the most false lumen formation is observed.
Authors: Douglas R Casady; Dale R Meyer; John W Simon; George O Stasior; Jitka L Zobal-Ratner Journal: Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg Date: 2006 Jul-Aug Impact factor: 1.746