The perils of permanent punctal plugs.
OBJECTIVE
To describe previously unreported complications associated with permanent lacrimal punctal plugs.


METHODS
Five oculoplastic practices reviewed patients referred to them over the preceding 2 years for permanent lacrimal punctal plug complications.


RESULTS
In 12 patients, 14 lacrimal punctal plugs migrated distally within the lacrimal drainage system, causing symptoms and necessitating surgical removal.


CONCLUSIONS
Luxation of permanent punctal plugs into the distal lacrimal drainage system can occur, sometimes requiring complex surgical intervention.
Soparkar
C N
CN
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester 01655-0322, USA.
Patrinely
J R
JR
Hunts
J
J
Linberg
J V
JV
Kersten
R C
RC
Anderson
R
R
D005548:Foreign-Body Migration / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007766:Lacrimal Apparatus Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012086:Reoperation