[Ritleng-lacrimal intubation system for injured canaliculi].

BACKGROUND

Intubation of the lacrimal pathway is used to restore the canaliculi. This procedure is often complicated by the so called accordion-phenomenon.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During the last 4 years we used a new system for lacrimal intubation: the Silicon intubationset designed by Ritleng. It consists of a silicon tube which is connected to a polypropylene tube and a stainless probe for lacrimal insertion. We used this set in 24 lacrimal lacerations of the lacrimal pathway.

RESULTS

With this lacrimal intubation set lacerated canalicula in 24 patients could be quickly reapproximated in 20 minutes under general anesthesia without complications.

CONCLUSION

The silicon intubation set allows quick and safe silicon tubing of injured canalicula. The new intubation set is a great advantage in operating of lacerated canalicula and suitable even for surgeons in training.