[Ultrasound diagnosis of the lacrimal sack]

A- und B-scan echography is a useful method for the examination of certain parts of the lacrimal drainage system. In most cases it can substitute for dacryocystography and other expensive methods in the diagnosis of lacrimal sac diseases. Older methods of echography for examination of the lacrimal sac are direct contact, water bath, and rarely transocular contact methods. We have developed a new method, in which a rubber tube filled with fluid is placed between the transducer and the skin surface. Comparison of these methods demonstrates that this is the best method for ultrasound diagnostics of the lacrimal sac because it can be carried out as easily as the direct contact method, and the quality of the echograms is as good as in the water bath method. A special advantage is that causing an infection in the patient with the ultrasound probe can be avoided.