The dacryoscanner, an optimal technique for nasolacrimal system exploration

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Persistent tearing (epiphora) significantly impacts quality of life.
• Accurate diagnosis of nasolacrimal system obstruction is crucial for effective treatment.
• Various causes, including stenosis, dacryolithiasis, bony malformations, and tumors, can lead to obstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the dacryoscanner as the imaging technique of choice for evaluating persistent tearing.
• To explain how the dacryoscanner visualizes the nasolacrimal system to determine obstruction site and origin.
• To discuss the diagnostic capabilities of the dacryoscanner in identifying various causes of nasolacrimal obstruction.

Main Methods:

• The dacryoscanner procedure involves opacifying the nasolacrimal system.
• Performed by radiologists under aseptic conditions.
• Utilizes various technical variants for optimal imaging.

Main Results:

• The dacryoscanner effectively determines the site of obstruction (lacrimal canaliculus, lacrimal sac, or nasolacrimal duct).
• It identifies the origin of obstruction, such as idiopathic or sequellar stenosis, dacryolithiasis, bony malformations, or tumors.
• The technique is well-tolerated by patients.

Conclusions:

• The dacryoscanner is a valuable and well-tolerated imaging modality for diagnosing persistent tearing.
• It provides precise localization and etiological information regarding nasolacrimal system obstructions.
• Its use allows for targeted therapeutic interventions.