[Perforated punctum plugs in treatment lacrimal punctal stenosis]

Retrospective evaluation of treatment of epiphora due to punctal stenosis with application of perforated plugs as well as evaluation of complications.

There were inserted perforated plugs into inferior lacrimal puncta to twelve patients with epiphora due to proximal stenosis in efferent lacrimal ducts. Their size were predeterminated by caliper measuring. Patients were followed for an average of eighteen months, at least one year.

Patients ceased to suffer from epiphora shortly after the application of perforated plugs, the plugs stayed firmly anchored in correct position and didnt cause foreign body sensation. Two patients showed temporary edema surrounding the plug after its insertion and one patient a small corneal erosion with rapid healing. There was no plug loss within one year.

Punctal plug insertion presents a simple, less invasive, effective and safe method to treat epiphora due to punctal stenosis.