Lacrimal (nasolacrimal) duct obstruction is a very common condition, especially in middle-aged and elderly women.
The main symptoms of an obstruction are watery eye and purulent discharge on the side of the obstruction.
In some patients, the obstruction may cause an abscess of the lacrimal sac. This is manifested by the sudden appearance of a red, painful bump on the inner corner of the eye.
Clinical diagnosis must me made promptly to prevent spreading of the infection.
Treatment of nasolacrimal duct obstruction is always surgical.
A DCR procedure is required. The operation may be performed through a skin incision (external DCR) or through the nose (endonasal DCR)
Endonasal DCR has less potential for complications, a quicker recovery and higher rate of success.
The operation is done under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgery.
The postoperative recovery is virtually painless.
For more information, contact us.
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