Surgery for the Congenital Lacrimal Fistula

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Congenital lacrimal fistula, a rare developmental disorder, was reviewed to evaluate clinical features and surgical techniques with its results. METHODS: The clinical features of 9 patients who received operation are retrospectively reviewed, including presenting symptoms, surgical techniques and their results. RESULTS: Excision of the fistula alone was performed for cosmetic blemish and excision of fistula with bicanalicular silicone tube intubation was done for symptomatic tearing. None of the 9 patients had symptomatic or cosmetic problem postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Fistulectomy with or without bicanalicular silicone tube intubation is a successful procedure for congenital lacrimal fistula.