Ophthalmology » Lid & Adnexa

Management of epiphora

Epiphora is due to some form of compromised drainage which may be caused by punctal plimosis, canalicular stenosis and obstruction or naso-lacrimal duct blockage. Obstruction of the naso-lacrimal duct may be congenital, in which case it is most usually due to delayed canalization of the valve of Hasner, or it may be acquired. In adults the commonest cause of epiphora is primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) which is associated with inflammation of the nasolacrimal duct. Epiphora in the presence of a patent lacrimal system to syringing and in the absence of excess tear production or lid malposition is defined as functional NLDO. Probing of the naso-lacrimal duct is the first line of treatment in children. In failed cases with persistent epiphora and recurrent infection, it may be necessary to perform a dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).In adults, external DCR is still the most popular choice for NLDO and dacryocystitis and has a success rate of 80-95%.

In order to proceed further, you need to have an account on IDG.
Create a new account now

Registered users, you can login below to access this page.