The tear drainage system (nasolacrimal system) in the eye can get blocked due to various reasons and requires surgery to provide a new pathway of drainage from eye to inside of nose.
PROCEDURE
It is done under general anaesthesia. There are two methods by which it can be performed:
External method- An incision is given on the side of nose over the tear sac. A piece of bone between the tear sac and nose is removed in order to reach the inside of the nose. The tear sac is opened and stitched to the lining of the nose so a direct passage is formed between the sac and the nose, bypassing the obstruction.
Endoscopic method- In this operation the tear sac is reached from the inside of the nose, using an endoscope so there is no cut on the skin. Rest of the procedure remains the same.
A soft silicone stent may be left temporarily in the new drain to keep the duct open while healing occurs, for a period of 6-8 weeks.
DURATION
It takes approx 60 min to 90 min to complete the procedure; and requires a single day hospital stay.
RECOVERY
A 1-2 week off from work may be needed. Blowing the nose, lifting of heavy weights or strenuous work is to be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
RISKS
- Hemorrhage
- Infection
- Swelling
- Recurrence