title: The sensitivity and specificity of an epiphora score at predicting a blocked sac washout following dacryocystorhinostomy.
abstract: In a prospective observational study, the sensitivity and specificity of an epiphora score, in predicting a patent sac washout following dacryocystorhinostomy are determined. Patients were examined in a joint otolaryngology/ophthalmology clinic for lacrimal syringing and nasal endoscopy. They completed a 0-10 visual analogue score to grade post operative symptoms. We conclude that due to the high specificity and low sensitivity of the score it is not a good predictor of patency following surgery and therefore no substitute for examining the patient.
authors.affiliation: St. Paul's Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom. austin-kate_1@tiscali.co.uk
authors.forename: Austin
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: McCormick
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Karkos
authors.forename: Max
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: McCormick
mesh_terms: D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D010147:Pain Measurement; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011336:Probability; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity