Laser-assisted transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy. Initial results

Background. Endoscopes for direct examination of the mucosa and disorders o f the lacrimal drainage system have been available for four years. This had led to the wish to be able to treat lacrimal disorders by endoscopes and l aser. Patients and Methods. Since September 1997 we have treated 48 patients by l aser-assisted transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) using a KTP lase r, including all those with stenosis to the nasolacrimal duct and all those with postsaccal stenosis. A bony window with diameter of 5x5 mm was create d. Bicanalicular intubation into the nose was performed and was left for 3- 6 months. Results. We found 40 patients to have patent lacrimal pathway and no sympto ms, 4 watering in cold weather, and 4 a restenosis. Conclusions. The KTP-laser is sufficiently powerful to create bony windows at least 5 mm in diameter, and a transcanalicular laser-assisted DCR is the refore possible.