Nasal endoscopy in dye testing after dacryocystorhinostomy

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a surgical procedure to restore lacrimal drainage.
• Assessing the success of DCR often involves functional tests like dye testing.
• The visualization of the nasal ostium is crucial for accurate functional assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of dye testing using a nasal speculum versus a nasopharyngoscope after dacryocystorhinostomy.
• To determine the reliability of dye testing in evaluating lacrimal drainage function post-DCR.

Main Methods:

• Dye testing was conducted in 45 patients following dacryocystorhinostomy.
• Testing was performed using a nasal speculum alone and subsequently with a nasopharyngoscope.
• Visualization of the nasal ostium and surrounding mucosa was assessed.

Main Results:

• Dye testing was positive in 60% of patent DCR cases when using only a nasal speculum.
• With a nasopharyngoscope, dye testing positivity increased to 98% in functioning DCR cases.
• In 2% of functioning DCR cases, dye tests were negative despite a patent ostium; 16% of ostia were not visualized due to anatomical variations.

Conclusions:

• Dye testing is a reliable indicator of lacrimal drainage function after dacryocystorhinostomy.
• Nasopharyngeal endoscopy significantly enhances the accuracy of dye testing compared to nasal speculum examination alone.
• Visualization of the nasal ostium via endoscopy is essential for accurate functional assessment post-DCR.