Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction Treatments

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction occurs when the channel that normally drains tears from the eye into the nasal cavity becomes blocked, causing persistent tearing, infection risk, and reduced quality of life. The primary surgical remedy, dacryocystorhinostomy, creates a new drainage opening between the lacrimal sac and the nasal mucosa, and researchers are actively comparing the external approach — performed through a small skin incision — against the endoscopic route, which avoids external scarring by working entirely through the nasal passages. Congenital cases, canalicular stenosis, and the use of adjuncts like mitomycin C to reduce postoperative scarring represent distinct subproblems, each with its own evidence base that remains incomplete. Central open questions include which technique yields superior long-term patency across different patient populations and how best to manage the more complex anatomy of the lacrimal drainage system when tumors or severe stenosis are involved.

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Keywords

DacryocystorhinostomyEndoscopicExternalNasolacrimal Duct ObstructionCongenital Nasolacrimal Duct ObstructionLacrimal Drainage System