[Endoscopic laser dacryoplasty. Methodology and outcome after 3 months].
BACKGROUND
After performing endoscopy of the lacrimal passage, the endoscopic system can be connected to an erbium-YAG laser if the indications are appropriate.


METHODS
In a bi-center study we performed laser dacryoplasty in 53 cases out of 261 endoscopy procedures (18 stenoses of the canaliculi, 19 stenoses of the sac, 9 stenoses of the nasolacrimal duct, 9 restenoses following DCR). In 35 cases an examination was done and in all 53 cases the results were obtained by means of a questionnaire.


RESULTS
Epiphora and irrigation were improved in more than 75%.


CONCLUSIONS
Suitable indications are small stenoses in the sac or duct membranes following DCR. Laser dacryoplasty is a promising method, but more studies still need to be conducted to obtain long-term results. The technical system must also still be improved to make it easier to handle.
Augenklinik, St. Josefs-Hospital Hagen, Universität Witten-Herdecke.
H W
HW
Meyer-Rüsenberg
K H
KH
Emmerich
M
M
Lüchtenberg
J
J
Steinhauer
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy; D004724:Endoscopy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000209:etiology; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D012008:Recurrence; D012086:Reoperation; D016896:Treatment Outcome
Endoskopische Laserdakryoplastik. Methodik und Ergebnisse nach drei Monaten.