RESTORATION OF THE PATENCY OF THE NASOLACRIMAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM

The anatomical lacrimal drainage system was restored in 30 patients wh o suffered from dacryostenosis and tearing. Previously, in order to al leviate these patients' symptoms, a dacryocystorhinostomy had had to b e performed. In the new procedure, local anesthesia was given, and a 6 00-mu m fiberoptic was introduced through the lacrimal drainage system to the obstruction area. A continuous 20 W/s Neodymium:YAG laser ener gy was used to reopen the drainage system. This is a simple office pro cedure. No skin cuts are required, no anatomical changes are made, and there is practically no bleeding. All patients returned to their norm al everyday activity within a few hours after the procedure.