title: Endocanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy. An anatomic study.
abstract: In human cadaver specimens, a laser fiberoptic was advanced through the canalicular systems to create fistulas between the nasolacrimal sac and nose. A 400- to 600-microns, blunt-tipped quartz fiberoptic was then advanced through the upper and/or lower canaliculus to the medial aspect of the nasolacrimal sac. After 10 to 15 laser pulses (10 W for 0.1 second), a 2.5 x 2.5-mm fistula was created between the lacrimal sac and the nose just anterior and inferior to the middle turbinate. Additional laser pulses can further enlarge the fistula. Endocanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy has potential advantages compared with endonasal laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy, including the following: laser energy is directed away from the eye; the technique resembles standard nasolacrimal probing; and nasal endoscopy and instrumentation may prove unnecessary.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford (Calif) University School of Medicine.
authors.forename: P S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Levin
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: StormoGipson
mesh_terms: D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy / Q000379:methods*; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology; D005402:Fistula; D006801:Humans; D007765:Lacrimal Apparatus / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D009301:Nasolacrimal Duct / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D009666:Nose / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery