Abstract
Objective: Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is a common change clinically manifested by the presence of epiphora and/or dacryocystitis. The objective is to analyze the technique and evaluate the success of endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy to remove obstructions in the lacrimal ducts, using the same surgical technique for all cases.
Method: This is a retrospective study. All 17 surgeries were performed from May 2006 to January 2011. Variables of interest were age, gender, duration, clinical presentation, etiology, surgical technique, use of silicone tubes, complications, and postoperative success. Successful surgery: absence of symptoms and tear flow after 7 months of follow-up.
Results: Although drug therapy may resolve the symptoms, the definitive approach consists of surgical procedure to restore patency of the lacrimal drainage system. We noticed that females were predominant (70.59%). There were 11 women, 1 girl, and 5 boys ages 3 to 71 years (average age range, 40.11 years) submitted to surgery performed by unciform process incision and posterior flap of lacrimal sac. The most involved side was the right (n = 11). Etiology was idiopathic, and the most predominant clinic was dacryocystitis. Silicone tube was used in 2 cases. We obtained a primary success of 94.11%. Complication: major bleeding in 1 case (anterior tamponade).
Conclusion: Primary success rate in most cases. Endoscopic surgery is a safe technique with excellent results for nasolacrimal duct obstruction. It is an excellent surgical option for otorhinolaryngology residents in university hospitals.
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