Endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy in children

Denis Knijnik1

  • 1Division of palpebral and lacrimal surgery, Hospital Petrópolis, Porto Alegre.

Insights

Endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric nasolacrimal duct obstruction resistant to probing. This study shows a high success rate, making it a viable surgical option for children.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) is common in children.
  • Previous treatments like probing often fail in persistent cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in pediatric patients with NLDO.
  • To determine if this technique is a valid alternative for children with NLDO refractory to probing.

Main Methods:

  • A clinical cohort study involving 27 children aged 2-12 years with NLDO.
  • All patients had previously undergone unsuccessful probing.
  • The procedure involved uncinectomy and a small lacrimal sac opening, with a 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

  • A success rate of 77.8% (21 out of 27 surgeries) was achieved.
  • The sole complication reported was silicone prolapse in one patient.

Conclusions:

  • Endoscopic endonasal DCR is an acceptable and safe surgical method for pediatric NLDO.
  • The technique demonstrates effectiveness in cases resistant to less invasive treatments like probing.
Abstract