Bicanalicular intubation using silicone tube versus polyvinylpyrrolidone coated tube: a comparative study.

Purpose To compare the efficacy and tolerance between silicone tribe and treated po lymer surface (PVP) tube of the bicanalicular intubation. Methods A randomized prospective study was performed in 50 patients (coated between March 96 and July 97) with chronic tearing. 25 classic intubations (silico ne) and 25 with PVP was used. Intubations were performed for 2 months. Func tional signs and objectives parameters at the medial canthus and the nasal mucous membrane were compared Results There was no difference about functional signs between the 2 groups of pati ents. Objective signs (hyperemia, secretions) observed in the medial canthu s and the nasal mucous membrane were less pronounced with the treated polym er surface tube. Conclusion This study confirms the great potential of treated polymer surface tube.