Two Cases of Recurrent Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction by Remaining Silicone Tube

ABSTRACT

Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a widely used procedure for nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Because endoscopic DCR has shown higher success rate, fewer complications, and better cosmetic outcome compared to the conventional external approach, it has replaced the external approach. However, since the openings of the nasal cavity formed during surgery are small, recurrence often occurs due to stenosis caused by granuloma formation or the silicone tube. Hence, it is important to remove the silicone tube before granuloma formation around the openings of the nasal cavity after surgery. Failure to remove the silicone tube at the appropriate time can cause inflammation, resulting in granuloma formation. We recently experienced two cases of recurrent nasolacrimal duct obstruction caused by a remaining silicone tube. Here, we present these cases with a brief review of the literature.