Urgent bilateral endoscopic marsupialization for respiratory distress due to bilateral dacryocystitis in a newborn

Hochang Kim1, Jongyeop Park, Jaeho Jang

  • 1From the Dongguk University Gyeongju Hospital.

Insights

This study presents a successful treatment for an infant with respiratory distress caused by bilateral dacryocystoceles. Urgent endoscopic marsupialization effectively resolved the condition, improving infant breathing.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Neonatal Care

Background:

  • Congenital dacryocystoceles can lead to dacryocystitis and respiratory distress in infants.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing neonatal airway obstruction.

Observation:

  • An infant presented with respiratory distress, bilateral medial canthal swellings, and inflammation (dacryocystitis).
  • Physical examination revealed coarse breathing sounds, indicating significant respiratory compromise.
  • Endoscopic evaluation identified huge bilateral congenital dacryocystoceles obstructing the nasal floor.

Findings:

  • Urgent bilateral endoscopic marsupialization and bicanalicular silicone intubation were performed.
  • The procedure successfully relieved the obstruction caused by the large dacryocystoceles.
  • Postoperative resolution of swelling and erythema occurred within 48 hours.

Implications:

  • Endoscopic marsupialization is an effective treatment for respiratory distress secondary to bilateral congenital dacryocystoceles.
  • This minimally invasive approach offers rapid symptom improvement in neonates.
  • Prompt surgical management can prevent long-term complications associated with neonatal airway obstruction.