Success Rate of Variable Collar Size Frosted Jones Tubes

To describe success rates and long-term outcomes of conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) with larger collar (4.5 or 5.0 mm) frosted Jones tubes (FJTs).

A retrospective chart review of all patients who received a larger collar (4.5 or 5.0 mm) FJT following CDCR by an author (RAD) was performed between January 1, 2010 and July 1, 2016. Patient demographics, etiology of tearing, follow-up time from placement of larger collar FJT, original tube collar diameter, number and sizes of collar adjustments, tearing status, and complications were recorded. Exclusion criteria included follow up less than 6 months after placement of a larger collar FJT. The study was IRB approved, HIPAA compliant, and adherent to the Declaration of Helsinki.

Twenty-five patients (29 eyes) met the inclusion criteria. Average follow-up time was 30 months. Twenty-eight out of 29 eyes had complete resolution of tearing after placement of larger collar FJT and no tubes were lost. Fourteen out of 29 eyes required adjustment in collar size after a larger collar was placed. Two out of 13 eyes that had a 5.0 mm collar placed required exchanged due to collar prominence.

With the use of larger collar FJTs, the long-term success of CDCR in tearing patients remains highly effective. This study demonstrates larger collar FJTs are well tolerated and help reduce the chance of tube loss.