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Updated: May 9, 2026
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Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Published on: October 13, 2017
Endocanalicular laser dacryocystorhinostomy with mucosal flaps
Marie-Claude Robert1, Babak Maleki, Patrick R Boulos
1Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|July 11, 2013
Summary
Endocanalicular laser dacryocystorhinostomy with a mucosal flap is a minimally invasive treatment for epiphora (excessive tearing). This technique shows an 89% success rate for anatomical and symptomatic relief in patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction causes epiphora.
- Traditional dacryocystorhinostomy can be invasive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the technique of endocanalicular laser dacryocystorhinostomy with mucosal flap creation.
- To report the outcomes of this technique for treating epiphora.
Main Methods:
- Prospective case series of 7 patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
- Endoscopic endonasal approach for mucosal flap creation.
- Endocanalicular approach for lacrimal sac opening and osteotomy.
Main Results:
- Nine procedures performed in 7 female patients (average age 68 years).
- 89% anatomical success and 89% symptomatic relief at average 10-month follow-up.
- Minimal pain reported; one intraoperative bleeding complication.
Conclusions:
- Endocanalicular laser dacryocystorhinostomy is a minimally invasive, successful treatment for epiphora.
- Nasal mucosal flap may improve fistulization.
- Further research in larger trials is warranted.
