Study of patient outcome in endoscopic dacrocystorhinosomy using a microdebrider in chronic dacryocystitis patients

Abstract

Background: Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) has become accepted as a suitable treatment for patients with chronic dacryocystitis. In this study authors did endoscopic dacrocystorhinosomy using a microdebrider, which is a recent advancement tool being used successfully in other endoscopic sinus surgeries also. Limited studies are available as of now on this topic.Methods: A total number of 33 patients (with 40 affected eyes) presenting with complains of epiphora having nasolacrimal duct obstruction were selected. They underwent an endoscopic DCR in which dissection of some nasal mucosa and widening of bony ostium was done using a microdebrider. Silicone stent was passed into the nasolacrimal duct through both punctum. Patient outcome was assessed by using both objective (endoscopy and dye test) and subjective (improved symptoms) criteria. Standard follow up time for clinical course was kept 3 months with weekly visits.Results: Patients which got relief from epiphora in 37 eyes (92.5% cases) had no obstruction on endoscopy and positive dye test. Rest (7.5 % cases) had presence of granulation tissue at rhinostoma site and negative dye test, which was cited as the cause of failure.Conclusions: The use of microdebrider is potentially beneficial in endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy. By using such an instrument, the minimal amount of tissue damage occurs, a large fistula is formed, and the recurrence due to the formation of adhesions/synechiae/granulations is prevented/reduced thus reducing the time of surgery, complications and failure rate.