Long-term Results of Silicone Tube Intubation in Incomplete Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (NLDO)

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the results of long-term follow-up of silicone tube intubation in patients with acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) that is incomplete. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted of the outcomes of silicone intubation performed between 1998 and 2003. During that period, we performed silicone intubation on 109 eyes, but only 45 eyes that completed at least 6 months of follow-up were included in the analysis. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 30.4 months (6~76 months), and silicone tubes remained in place an average of 6.5 months (1~18months). The success rate, which is defined as the improvement of epiphora symptoms with patent nasolacrimal irrigation. CONCLUSIONS: Silicone tube intubation is a simple, cost-effective, and beneficial treatment for patients, but the recurrence rate increases over time, especially several years after the operation.