Shapiro A, Dan J A
Department of Ophthalmology, Hahnemann University, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA.
Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg. 1997 Sep;13(3):210-5; discussion 214-5. doi: 10.1097/00002341-199709000-00009.
The anatomical lacrimal drainage system was restored in 30 patients who suffered from dacryostenosis and tearing. Previously, in order to alleviate these patients' symptoms, a dacryocystorhinostomy had had to be performed. In the new procedure, local anesthesia was given, and a 600-micron fiberoptic was introduced through the lacrimal drainage system to the obstruction area. A continuous 20 W/s Neodymium:YAG laser energy was used to reopen the drainage system. This is a simple office procedure. No skin cuts are required, no anatomical changes are made, and there is practically no bleeding. All patients returned to their normal everyday activity within a few hours after the procedure.
