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Case Reports
. 2024 Jul 15:48:105.
doi: 10.11604/pamj.2024.48.105.42226. eCollection 2024.

Repair of an iatrogenic lacrimal fistula: a case report

Oumayma Elmansouri  1 , Zineb Algouti  1 , Houda Bezza  1 , Elhoussine Ait Lhaj  1 , Mohamed Kriet  1 , Fouad Elasri  1
Affiliations
Case Reports

Repair of an iatrogenic lacrimal fistula: a case report

Oumayma Elmansouri et al. Pan Afr Med J. .

Abstract

Lacrimal cutaneous fistula is an uncommon yet clinically significant condition leading to persistent epiphora, recurrent infections, and significant patient discomfort. It can be congenital or acquired. Timely identification and appropriate surgical management are crucial to alleviate symptoms and restore normal lacrimal system functionality. This case report describes the presentation and surgical management of an iatrogenic lacrimal cutaneous fistula in a 68-year-old patient. The surgical intervention involved a novel stripping technique, which successfully resolved the fistula without requiring special instruments. The patient's post-operative recovery was positive, with complete closure of the fistulous tract and restoration of normal lacrimal system function. This report underscores the efficacy of the stripping technique for managing iatrogenic lacrimal fistulas and suggests its consideration for similar cases.

Keywords: Lacrimal fistula; case report; epiphora; stripping.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interests.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
A) diagnosis of the lacrimal fistula on the left; B) clear lacrimation from the cutaneous fistula, on the right; confirmation with fluorescein test
Figure 2
Figure 2
a nylon suture thread passed through the cutaneous opening of the fistula until it emerged from incision following the path of the fistula
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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