Polypropylene in Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: A Novel Stent

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a common surgical procedure for lacrimal apparatus obstruction.
• Common causes of DCR failure include common canaliculus obstruction and rhinostomy site closure.
• Silicone stents are frequently used but are expensive and not always accessible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical efficacy and outcomes of using polypropylene (Prolene) sutures as stents in endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy.
• To assess polypropylene as a cost-effective and readily available alternative to silicone stents.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-one endoscopic DCR procedures were performed between July 2013 and December 2014.
• 3/0 Prolene sutures were inserted from the lower punctum to the neo-ostium after creating an aperture in the lacrimal sac.
• Prolene stents were left in place for 3 weeks, with patients followed up for 3 months.

Main Results:

• The study included patients aged 41-60 years (47%) with a female preponderance (64.7%).
• A high success rate was observed, with 47 patients (92.2%) achieving very good results.
• Two patients (3.9%) developed granulomas requiring revision surgery; 2 patients were lost to follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Stenting with polypropylene sutures is an easy, safe, effective, and low-cost modification for endoscopic DCR.
• Prolene sutures offer a promising and accessible alternative to silicone stents, particularly in resource-limited settings.