Reconstruction of absent lacrimal puncta.
A previously described technique to isolate absent lacrimal puncta is reemphasized. The procedure has been modified, whereby the entire punctal and vertical canalicular walls are removed with a Holth sclerectomy punch and by silastic intubation of the passages. This has led to increased permanent patency of the lacrimal puncta and a greater, successful resolution of epiphora. A modified pigtail probe with a narrowed tip has been developed to facilitate passage of the silastic tubing without it slipping off the probe.
D006801:Humans; D007440:Intubation; D007765:Lacrimal Apparatus / Q000601:surgery*; D008722:Methods; D009885:Ophthalmology / Q000295:instrumentation; D012826:Silicone Elastomers; D013518:Surgery, Plastic / Q000379:methods*; D013525:Surgical Instruments
D012826:Silicone Elastomers