Lacrimal ultrasonography (echography) evaluates lesions in that draina
ge system in a painless, noninvasive way in the office. The technique
complements other imaging methods and can be correlated with histologi
cal results. The authors survey the principles and technique and descr
ibe the normal ultrasound, indications, applications, and limitations.
Lacrimal ultrasound, whose potential has just lately been recognized,
only reveals gross anatomic abnormalities and cannot evaluate the fun
ctional integrity of the lacrimal excretory system.