Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: A Comprehensive Review of Surgical Techniques and Clinical Outcomes

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) stands as an essential surgical procedure for addressing the persistent challenge of dacryocystitis-a condition marked by inflammation of the lacrimal sac due to nasolacrimal duct obstruction. A hospital-based retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital, spanning the years 2018 to 2023, involving 34 patients who underwent Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy. The study involved the examination of their clinical presentations, surgical techniques employed, and resulting outcomes along with causes of failure. Our study included 34 patients who had presented with persistent watering of eyes. The maximum number of cases was in the age group of 46-60 years (38%), with a minimum age of 7 years and a maximum age of 68 years. Among those 34 patients, 5 underwent a revision DCR. Fifteen patients underwent stenting. Thirteen of the fifteen patients, who underwent stenting came for regular postoperative follow up and stent removal was done 6 to 8 weeks later. The two patients who were lost to follow-up presented after 4 years of their initial surgery with persistent symptoms. The success rate of endoscopic DCR was 94% in our study. Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy has emerged as a practical solution for addressing nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Despite numerous surgical modifications documented over time, the endoscopic DCR technique consistently demonstrates excellent outcomes with minimal patient morbidity. This study underscores the significance of thorough preoperative assessment, making informed decisions regarding stenting during both the preoperative and intraoperative period, employing proper surgical techniques, and recognizing the importance of regular post-operative follow-up.