Management of unsuccessful lacrimal surgery

Two hundred and eight cases of failed dacryocystorhinostomy presenting to the Lacrimal Clinic at Moorfields Eye Hospital between 1970 and 1985 were reviewed. All cases underwent a further operation. The reasons for failure were usually apparent on reoperation. The surgical technique is described. A second dacryocystorhinostomy is a highly successful technique that spares both patient and surgeon the lifelong commitment to a bypass tube.