[Trans-canalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy: technical variations and results].
OBJECTIVE
To confirm the usefulness of the trans-canalicular laser approach of lachrymal obstructions.


METHODS
We carried out an observational, prospective, non-randomized interventional study on 150 consecutive eyes treated, between March 2004 and March 2005, using a trans-canalicular approach with a diode laser, under endonasal endoscopic control. We studied 2 groups of 75 eyes: in group I we did not use lachrymal silicone intubation nor mitomycin C; in group II we used mitomycin C and bicanalicular lachrymal intubation. Mean follow-up period has been 16 months.


RESULTS
Positive lachrymal irrigation was present in 67/75 eyes in group I and in 71/75 eyes in group II. Clinical improvement was found in 69/75 eyes in group I and in 73/75 in group II.


CONCLUSIONS
Technical variations as lachrymal intubation or use of mitomycin C have not demonstrate significant differences. Our results indicate that the transcanalicular approach with diode is effective, with minimal local and general morbidity.
Maeso Riera
José
J
Otorrinolaringología, Hospital Municipal de Badalona, Barcelona, España. 24024jmr@comb.es
Sellarès Fabrés
Maria Teresa
MT
D000368:Aged; D003608:Dacryocystorhinostomy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies