Functional endoscopic transnasal dacryocystorhinostomy

Abstract

Endoscopic nasal surgical techniques are revolutionising the management of nasal and sinus disorders. Historically the surgical approach to the nasolacrimal sac and duct has been indirect by an external approach because of poor visualisation intranasally. The nasolacrimal apparatus is, however, intimately related to the lateral nasal wall and may readily be approached using an endoscopic technique which minimises functional interference with the physiological action of the lacrimal pump. This paper describes a technique of endoscopic intranasal dacryocystorhinostomy which has success rates comparable to those obtained by the more conventional external approach.