Anatomical details used in the surgical reconstruction of the lacrimal canaliculus: cadaveric study.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to investigate the proximal part of the lacrimal tract.


METHODS
The dissection was performed on 20 specimens of adult cadavers under an operating microscope.


RESULTS
The upper lacrimal canaliculus (ULC) and the lower lacrimal canaliculus (LLC) were opened to the lacrimal sac (LS) in three types. In Type A, the ULC and the LLC unite before opening to the LS and form the a common canaliculus (CC). In Type B, the ULC and the LLC unite at the wall of the LS and open to the LS via common hole. In Type C, however, the ULC and the LLC open to the LS separately. Type A, Type B and Type C were observed in 85%, 5% and 10% cases, respectively. Type A and Type B opened to the LS from back to front at an acute angle in 72% of the specimens, and at a right angle in 22%. The opening angles of the CC with lacrimal canaliculus; the ULC with the LS, and the LLC with the LS were realized at an acute angle.


CONCLUSIONS
Crucial parameters, which have not been previously mentioned such as the opening angles of the ULC and the LLC, were investigated as they might be used during the procedure.
Orhan
Mustafa
M
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
Govsa
Figen
F
Saylam
Canan
C
D000368:Aged; D002102:Cadaver; D006801:Humans; D007765:Lacrimal Apparatus / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008853:Microscopy; D008875:Middle Aged; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures