Transcanalicular holmium laser dacryocystorhinostomy

ABSTRACT

Laser dacryocystorhinostomy is gaining popularity among the ophthalmic surgeons. We employed THC YAG [thulium-and holmium-doped and chromium-senitized YAG] laser operating in the near infrared [2.1 micro m] for this procedure, and have outlined our technique and its adventages. The laser is equipped with a helium-neon aiming beam. A quartz fiberoptic probe is passed through the dilated canaliculus and rested against the bony wall of the lacrimal fossa. Aiming beam is turned on to transilluminate the sac, and THC YAG laser applications made to create a 3 to 4 mm wide bony opening. A silicone tube is threaded through the canalicular system, and kept in place for about six months. The success rate, though not higher than, compares favorably with the conventional surgical techniques. Out of a total of 12 patients we performed this procedure on, ten [83%] had satisfactory outcome at one-year follow-up. [Pakistan Journal of Ophthalmology, 1045-46, April and July, 1994]