The authors aimed to determine the success of nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLD) probing in a cohort of patients older than four years with simple membranous obstruction. Eighteen patients were included in this retrospective study aged 5.6 years on average (4.1-10.6). Fifteen were aged 4.5 years, one aged seven, one aged eight and one aged 10 years. Follow-up was of 30.36 ±44.53 months. Successful outcome was obtained in 16 cases (89%) after probing. Two had persistent symptoms (aged 5.9 and 8.7 years) and required further treatment. They conclude that probing alone is sufficient treatment for the majority of older children. For those with diffuse stenosis, balloon catheter dilation and placement of NLD stents should be considered.
Outcome of nasolacrimal probing in older children
Reviewed by Fiona Rowe
Outcome of primary probing for simple membranous congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction in children older than 4 years.
CONTRIBUTOR
Fiona Rowe (Prof)
Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK.
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