Update on punctal plugs.
Punctal plugs have offered a safe and often reversible treatment for aqueous-deficient dry eye for over three decades. However, they represent only one tool in our armamentrarium to help patients with dry eyes, and plugs do have limitations. This article briefly reviews the history of occlusive treatments for aqueous tear deficiency and provides an update of recent advancements in punctal and canalicular occlusive materials and techniques.
Taban
Mehryar
M
Division of Ophthalmology, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Chen
Benson
B
Perry
Julian D
JD
D020341:Absorbable Implants; D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D015352:Dry Eye Syndromes / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000150:complications; D009301:Nasolacrimal Duct / Q000601:surgery*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D016896:Treatment Outcome