Intraosseous approach to the nasolacrimal duct for removal of a foreign body in a dog

A Labrador Retriever was evaluated because of chronic mucopurulent discharg e from the left eye. A foreign body was identified in the nasolacrimal duct by use of dacryocystorhinography. Attempts to alleviate the inflammation b y use of flushing and administration of antimicrobials were unsuccessful. A t surgery, the infraorbital foramen was used as a landmark for a skin incis ion, because the nasolacrimal duct courses dorsal and parallel to the infra orbital canal. An air drill was used to remove the portion of the maxillary bone overlying the nasolacrimal duct, which exposed the intraosseous porti on of the duct and allowed removal of a plant-material foreign body. The in cision in the duct was allowed to heal by second intention, and the dog rec overed without complications.