A Simple New Method for Identifying the Proximal Cut End in Lower Canalicular Laceration

PURPOSE: We report a simple and effective method of identifying the medial cut end of lower canalicular laceration cases. METHODS: Twenty-seven eyes with lower canalicular lacerations as a result of trauma were involved in the study. Surgery was performed within 48 hours after injury for canalicular reconstruction. Upper canalicular probing was utilized to identify the medial cut end of deep canalicular lacerations when difficulties were encountered. Total time from the initiation of the probing procedure to the identification of the medial cut end of the lower canaliculus was measured. RESULTS: A total of 27 eyes with lower canalicular lacerations were reconstructed. In 20 eyes, the medial lacerated end was located by upper canalicular probing. The mean time from initiation of the probing procedure to identification of the medial cut end of the lacerated canaliculus was 2 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that upper canalicular probing in patients with lower canalicular lacerations significantly reduces the time from the initiation of the operation to the identification of the medial cut end of the lower canaliculus.

Emergency surgery in orbital trauma: a neurosurgical view.

This study is an analysis of five cases of orbital trauma causing proptosis, paralysis of extraocular muscles with or without associated visual failure. All the cases were treated by a Neurosurgical team. Either a frontal craniotomy or a lateral orbitotomy was performed. Plain X-rays of the skull and Computerised Tomography (C.T. Scanning) were the main investigations. Results were encouraging both functionally and cosmetically. Early diagnosis and an aggressive approach to orbital decompression can achieve good results.