Analysis of age as a possible prognostic factor for transcanalicular multidiode laser dacryocystorhinostomy

Purpose. To assess the prognostic value of age on the outcome of transcanalicular multidiode laser dacryocystorhinostomy (TCL-DCR) in patients with acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). Methods. The medical records of TCL-DCR performed between March 2009 and September 2013 were reviewed retrospectively. Inclusion criteria include over 20 years of age, similar mean follow-up period, and similar mean duration of stenting. The main outcome is surgical success. The effect of age on success rate is also evaluated. Results. The anatomical success was 52% in Group 1 (20-30 years), 56% in Group 2 (31-40 years), 64% in Group 3 (41-50 years), 76% in Group 4 (51-60 years), and 88% in Group 5 (over 60 years). The statistical difference among Group 1 and Group 5, in terms of surgical success rate, was found to be significant (P = 0.009). Additionally, the 20-30-year-old patients had a failure rate 6.76 times higher than that of the over-60-year-old patients (P = 0.009; 95% CI, 1.605-28.542). Conclusion. TCL-DCR is a surgical treatment option for NLDO for which a skin incision can be avoided. The success rate of TCL-DCR for younger population is lower when compared with elderly population.