Lacrimal Gland-Targeted Therapies

Lacrimal Gland Therapies for Refractory Epiphora: Current Understanding

“…The common causes of refractory epiphora include proximal bicanalicular obstruction, punctal agenesis, acquired punctal effacement, posttraumatic loss of proximal LDS, or iatrogenic loss during trauma repair 2 . Lacrimal gland therapies proposed for refractory epiphora include intraglandular botulinum injections, intraglandular needling, and partial dacryoadenectomy 2–4 …”

“…We revisited the concept of lacrimal gland removal as a treatment option for patients with refractory epiphora and unsalvageable lacrimal drainage system who refused the option of conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy. In a work soon to be published, we described the technique of partial orbital lobe dacryoadenectomy, wherein we initially removed ~30% of the orbital lobe starting from its tail at the inferior end 3 . Subsequently, we removed ~40% to 50% of the visible area of the orbital lobe involving the tail and the lateral segment 3 .…”

“…In a work soon to be published, we described the technique of partial orbital lobe dacryoadenectomy, wherein we initially removed ~30% of the orbital lobe starting from its tail at the inferior end 3 . Subsequently, we removed ~40% to 50% of the visible area of the orbital lobe involving the tail and the lateral segment 3 . The patients reported significant epiphora improvement for up to 3 months with no signs or symptoms of dry eye disease.…”