Purpose: To develop a protocol for treatment of injuries to the puncta
and canaliculi associated with eyelid burns. Methods: We retrospectiv
ely reviewed the records of seven patients who required treatment of p
unctal and canalicular stenosis caused by burns to the medial eyelids.
Results: Seven patients were treated within 5 days of injury: one by
punctal dilation and six by surgical debridement, punctoplasty or cana
liculoplasty, and silicone intubation. All remained free of epiphora.
Conclusions: Early evaluation and treatment of punctal and canalicular
burn injuries are beneficial. If the puncta are only slightly stenoti
c, close observation with serial lacrimal testing and punctal dilation
is recommended. If the puncta and lateral canaliculi are severely ste
notic or obliterated, surgical debridement and punctoplasty or canalic
uloplasty followed by placement of a silicone stent effectively preven
ts permanent lacrimal stenosis and epiphora.