Long Term Success of Endo-DCR with Silicone Tube Catheter (STC) versus Endo-DCR without STC: A Comparative Study

Epiphora  caused by  mechanical block at puncta, canaliculi, lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct need surgical correction. EndoDCR  is gaining  popularity over conventional surgery. This study aims at evaluating the role of Silicone Tube Catheter (STC) to improve the long term outcome of endoDCR . Materials and Method This retrospective study was conducted on 58 consecutive endoDCR surgeries between 2012 and 2014. 22 subjects had endoDCR without STC, 36 subjects had endoDCR with STC, of whom in 20 cases STC was removed in  3 weeks and in 16 cases in  12 weeks. Clinical and endoscopic data collected post-operatively after 3 weeks,12 weeks and at 1 year. Analysis was done on intention to get suggestion for better result from endoDCR operations. Results  Complications were identified as early and late. Complications like granulations, synaechia, echymosis, eyelid haematoma and surgical emphysema were searched for in every follow up. Development of obliterating scar was the main cause of failure. Epistaxis was negligible. No retrobulbar haematoma or rectus injury was noted. Minor synaechia between middle turbinate and nasal wall noted in 13.6 to 20%  of cases in all groups. Granulations were more in cases had STC for 12 weeks but managed with conservative measures. Obliterating scar was slightly less in this group in comparison to other groups. Discussion  The present study emphasises the use of indwelling STC in endoDCR for a longer period .