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Results of Crawford tube intubation in children
Acta Ophthalmologica
|June 1, 1993
Insights
Crawford tube insertion effectively treated recurrent epiphora in children after failed probing. Most patients experienced long-term relief from watery eyes and discharge, with minimal complications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Recurrent epiphora (watery eyes) in children often necessitates surgical intervention.
- Nasolacrimal duct obstruction can cause persistent tearing and discharge.
- Previous probing procedures may be unsuccessful in resolving epiphora.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Crawford tube insertion for treating recurrent epiphora in pediatric patients.
- To assess the long-term outcomes and complication rates associated with Crawford tube placement.
Main Methods:
- Crawford tubes were inserted into the nasolacrimal system of 24 children with recurrent epiphora.
- Patients had a history of unsuccessful probing for their condition.
- Outcomes were monitored for epiphora resolution and complications post-tube removal.
Main Results:
- Twenty-two out of 24 children (91.7%) were free of epiphora and discharge.
- Symptomatic relief was observed from 6 months to 4 years after tube removal.
- Two children (8.3%) showed no improvement.
- Mild epistaxis occurred during insertion in some cases.
- Tube displacement was noted in 3 children within 2 weeks of insertion.
Conclusions:
- Crawford tube insertion is a highly effective treatment for recurrent pediatric epiphora following failed probing.
- The procedure demonstrates a favorable long-term success rate with a low incidence of significant complications.
- Nasolacrimal intubation with Crawford tubes offers a viable solution for persistent watery eyes in children.
Abstract:
Between 1987-1991 we inserted Crawford tubes in the nasolacrimal system in 24 children with recurrent epiphora following unsuccessful probing. Twenty-two are free of epiphora and discharge from 6 months to 4 years after the removal of tubes and 2 children show no improvement. Apart from mild epistaxis at the time of the tube insertion and tube displacement within 2 weeks of insertion in 3 children, we report no other complications.