title: [Opening of lacrimal duct stenoses with endoscope and laser].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Since the development of lacrimal endoscopes with which the mucosa and disorders of the lacrimal drainage system can be examined directly, the choice of surgical technique has changed decisively. Flexible miniendoscopes can be combined with a laser for the first time, allowing for exact localization of the stenosis and subsequent therapy.
  
  
  METHODS
  Between January 1996 and February 1997, 12 patients with acquired lacrimal stenosis were treated with an Hyb:erbium-YAG laser. After endoscopic localization, the stenosis or stricture was opened using the laser. Bicanicular intubation into the nose was performed and was left for at least 3 months. Five patients were treated for stenosis of the lower canaliculus and seven patients for postsaccal stenosis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The longest follow-up period was 22 months and the shortest 9 months. Treatment was successful in 4 cases with a canalicular stenosis, but restenosis occurred in all cases of postaccal stenosis and in 1 case of canalicular stenosis, and required a DCR.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  At this time we conclude that disorders of the canaliculi can be successfully treated with endoscopic localization, opening with a laser and subsequent silicone tube intubation. A high rate of restenosis may be expected in cases of postsaccal stenosis.
authors.affiliation: Universitäts-Augenklinik Graz.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Müllner
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D019723:Endoscopes; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000209:etiology; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome