Anatomical and functional outcomes of canalicular laceration repair with self retaining mini-MONOKA stent.

AIM

To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of canalicular laceration repair with self retaining monocanalicular intubation system (Mini-MONOKA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of 29 patients undergoing canalicular laceration repair from 2010 to 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Operative details and complications were noted. The stent was removed earliest at 3 months. Anatomical and functional success was defined by a patent syringing and the absence of epiphora respectively.

RESULTS

Out of 29 patients, 23 (79.3%) were males. Mean age at presentation was 19.3 ± 13.8 years. Lower canaliculus was involved in 19 (65.5%), upper in 8 (27.5%) and both canaliculi in 2 (6.8%). Ten patients presented later than 11 days after trauma (range 12-168 days), and repair was attempted successfully in all. Fourteen (48.2%) cases reported for stent removal, at a mean follow-up period of 4.64 ± 2.12 months. Anatomical success was noted in 12 (85.71%) and functional success in 13 (92.85%) cases. Four patients had stent related complications.

CONCLUSION

Canalicular injuries are more common in young males. Mini-MONOKA stents are easy to insert and retrieve, and yield excellent anatomical and functional outcome. Canalicular laceration repair can be attempted successfully irrespective of the delay in presentation.