[Stent implantation and balloon dilatation in the treatment of stenosis and obstruction of the lacrimal apparatus]

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate treatment of epiphora caused by obstructions of the nasolacrimal duct system with balloon dilatation and stent implantation.

Material and methods: 28 dacryocystoplasties were performed in 20 patients with complete (n = 7) or incomplete (n = 13) obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct system.

Results: Dacryocystoplasty was technically successful performed in 26 cases (93%). Recanalisation was not achieved in two patients with complete obstructions. 17 patients showed complete or partial resolution of epiphora during follow-up of up to two years (clinical success 85%). Complete reobstruction occurred only in one patient 9 months after balloon dilatation and recanalisation was not possible.

Conclusion: With a technical success rate of 93% and a clinical success rate of 85% dacryocystoplasty is a non-operative alternative for treatment of epiphora caused by obstructions of the nasolacrimal duct system.