[Lacrimal duct intubation as an alternative to dacryocystorhinostomy]

A series of 52 patients, aged 60-85 and suffering from chronic obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct with no other complication of the lacrimal mechanism or of the eyelids (e.g. ectropium), were treated by means of silicon tube intubation instead of dacryocystorhinotomy. The tubes remained in place for 10-12 months and the patients were observed a 3-year postoperative period. In 37 cases (71%) the nasolacrimal duct remained patient after 3 years. In 7 cases, although the drainage was not opened, the patients ceased to show evidence of secretion of mucus or pus. We consider that intubation of the nasolacrimal duct is an alternative to dacryocystorhinotomy, but only if the patient knows that the tubes are to remain in place for a lengthy period of time. This does not disturb a cooperative patient since the tubes are essential and do not create any irritation. Furthermore, tears are partially eliminated around them and, thus, improvement of the symptoms is apparent from the first day onward.