Related Experiment Videos
Long-term results after probing for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction
S M Sturrock1, C J MacEwen, J D Young
1Department of Ophthalmology, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee.
Insights
Long-term follow-up of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction probing shows similar symptom rates in treated and control groups. Probing appears to normalize symptom rates, suggesting delayed intervention for mild residual symptoms after successful probing.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) is common in infants.
- Surgical probing is a primary treatment, but long-term outcomes require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy of probing for CNLDO.
- To compare symptom rates in patients treated with probing versus an age-matched control group.
Main Methods:
- A parental questionnaire was used for long-term follow-up (4-13 years post-probing).
- Participants included patients treated for CNLDO and an age-matched control group.
Main Results:
- Approximately 30% of patients who underwent probing still experienced epiphora or discharge.
- A similar high symptom rate was observed in the control group, with no statistically significant difference.
- This suggests probing normalizes symptom rates to near-normal levels for the age group.
Conclusions:
- Probing for CNLDO appears effective in reducing symptom rates to levels comparable to the general population.
- Findings support a conservative approach, recommending delayed intervention for mild residual symptoms after successful probing.
- Long-term studies on CNLDO incidence should consider spontaneous resolution rates and follow-up duration.
Abstract:
The long term results of probing for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction were reviewed using a parental questionnaire issued to both treated and age-matched control groups. On follow up 4-13 years after probing in childhood 30% of patients still had symptoms of epiphora or discharge. Surprisingly, a similar high symptom rate was found in the controls, such that there was no statistically significant difference in the rate of symptoms between the two groups. Probing had therefore apparently reduced the symptom rate to a level close to normal for the age group concerned. All studies on the incidence of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction must be interpreted with reference to the known high rate of spontaneous resolution as a clear trend has been demonstrated towards a lower incidence of symptoms the longer the follow up after probing. This finding would support a policy of delay before further intervention in patients with mild residual symptoms after a technically successful probing.