A new method using epidural catheters in the reconstruction of lacrimal drainage

Scand J Plast Reconstr Surg Hand Surg. 2005;39(2):85-9. doi: 10.1080/02844310510006385.

Abstract

Lacrimal outflow obstruction after severance of the duct is a common problem in facial trauma. Conventional treatments include external dacryocystorhinostomy, endoscopic-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy, conjunctivorhinostomy, and a Jones tube bypass. However, the disadvantages of these methods are that the procedures are complicated and there is a high rate of recurrence. From April 2000 to March 2003, seven patients with epiphora after facial trauma had their lacrimal ducts drained with epidural catheters. The V-M shape incision was used with an epidural catheter placed as a stent for six months. After removal of the tube, all patients recovered fully from the epiphora during the follow-up period, and there were no complications.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Catheterization / instrumentation*
  • Dacryocystorhinostomy* / methods
  • Drainage / instrumentation
  • Drainage / methods
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Safety
  • Facial Injuries / complications*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / etiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / instrumentation
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Assessment
  • Sampling Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome