Application Possibilities of a New Preloaded Nasolacrimal Duct Intubation System

Abstract

Introduction The LacriJet (FCI S. A. S. – France Chirurgie Instrumentation, Paris, France) represents a novel, simplified and preloaded system for monocanalicular or monocanaliculonasal nasolacrimal duct intubation. It is a further development of the Masterka and shall reduce the intubation time during the surgical procedure. The aim of the present study was to present first experiences with this system for different indications. Material and Methods All patients who underwent nasolacrimal duct intubation with the LacriJet at the University of Muenster Medical Center in the period from March to November 2019 were included. The postoperative outcome was evaluated 3 to 6 months later. Results In total, 12 nasolacrimal duct intubations with the LacriJet were performed at our center in the above-mentioned period. The main indication for intubation was congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO). In addition, intubation was performed in cases with eye lid tumors involving the nasolacrimal duct, in a case of canalicular laceration and in a case of canaliculitis. In 3 cases, there was an early dislocation or a complete loss of intubation. Of these, 2 were cases with CNLDO and the third dislocation was due to manipulation by the patient. All in all, the functional results were satisfying. Summary The use of the LacriJet is highly suitable for the treatment of CNLDO, stenting in canalicular laceration or lid tumours involving the lacrimal drainage system. However, the known disadvantages of monocanalicular intubation (dislocation, early loss of intubation) also occur with this type of system and a system briefing seems useful. The LacriJet therefore represents a modern and simple method for nasolacrimal duct intubation and can be used for various indications.

Assessment of Lacrijet monocanalicular intubation for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction

“…6,7,13,18 In the retrospective case series of Mihailovic et al 3 out of 12 patients post lacrijet intubation experienced an early tube dislocation or a complete loss of the tube. 14 Fayet et al also described several difficulties when using the Lacrijet system that occurred more in his preliminrary study. The techqniue has been gradually modified.…”

“…Mihailovic et al presented a retrospective study of children and adults who were intubated with Lacrijet tube. 14 It is a smaller cohort study of 12 patients with CNLDO, canalicular laceration and eyelid reconstruction. They concluded that Lacrijet can be used in the above mentioned indications, but they did not discuss the success rate and nor did they measure the operative time.…”