Outcome of Probing and Syringing in Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction in Children Under Local Anesthesia

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the success rate of probing and syringing for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction in children under local anaesthesia.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Ophthalmology Department, Niazi Medical Dental College, Sargodha Pakistan, from Jul 2018 to Dec 2019

Methodology: Forty-five children were included in the study, of which five had bilateral epiphora. Children of 8-12 months of age were included in this study. Probing and syringing were done under topical local anaesthesia. In this study, special modified straight 25D lacrimal probe cannula was used. Post-operative steroids and antibiotics were given to all the children for two weeks.

Results: Forty Children (45 Eyes) of 8-12 months of age (less than one year) were included in this study. Single successful probing was achieved in 40 eyes (88.88%). Probing was repeated in five cases. Repeated successful probing was achieved in 3 eyes (60%) as the remaining two eyes (40%) where success was not achieved had a bone abnormality which needed an ENT examination and further intervention like Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with close intubation.

Conclusion: Topical local anaesthesia is a good alternative to general anaesthesia as it is not available, particularly in remote areas of Pakistan. It saves the children from the hazards of general anaesthesia and is a good choice for children who are not fit for general anaesthesia.