Dacryocystorhinostomy Practice Patterns Among ASOPRS Members: A Shift in Preferences and Attitudes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oculoplastics
• Rhinology

Background:

• Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a surgical procedure to restore tear drainage.
• Endoscopic DCR (endoDCR) and external DCR are the primary surgical approaches.
• Practice patterns and influencing factors for DCR techniques are not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery members on current DCR practice patterns.
• To identify factors influencing the choice between endoscopic and external DCR.
• To assess the use and perceived relevance of preoperative imaging in DCR.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, anonymous 16-question web-based survey was distributed to 277 members.
• Survey assessed surgeon demographics, practice settings, surgical preferences, and imaging practices.
• Responses were statistically analyzed for frequency distributions and comparisons.

Main Results:

• 111 surgeons (40.0%) responded, showing variable endoDCR utilization.
• Junior surgeons (<5 years) were more likely to use endoDCR (>66% of cases) than senior surgeons (>15 years).
• Academic surgeons utilized endoDCR more than private practice surgeons; scar avoidance and revision were key endoDCR reasons.

Conclusions:

• EndoDCR utilization correlates with years in practice, favoring younger surgeons.
• A majority of surgeons perceive low relevance for preoperative imaging in most DCR cases.
• Further research is needed to standardize indications for endoDCR vs. external DCR and imaging.