Visualization of the probe tip during lacrimal outflow system probing and intubation

Probing of the lacrimal outflow system is commonly performed by ophthalmologists for treating nasolacrimal duct obstruction in infants or for intubating the lacrimal system. Visualization of the probe tip in the inferior meatus during probing insures the surgeon of reaching the nose with the probe. Similarly, visualization of the probe is the key to success in intubation irrespective of the retrieval system used. Rotation of a curved metal probe plus infracturing of the inferior turbinate after shrinking the nasal mucosa with cocaine allows such visualization in most instances.