Evaluation of the Functional Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction with Digital Subtraction Dacryocystography

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We evaluated the structural abnormality of the lacrimal drainage system by using digital subtraction dacryocystography in patients with functional nasolacrimal obstruction. METHODS: From April 2001 to March 2002, digital subtraction dacryocystography was performed in 17 eyes of 11 patients who had patent lacrimal systems on syringing with no known underlying cause of epiphora. RESULTS: Six eyes of 5 patients showed a diffuse incomplete nasolacrimal duct obstruction inferior to the lacrimal sac, and one eye of 1 patient had a filling defect in lacrimal sac. Fifteen eyes of 10 patients were received silicone tube intubation and one eye of 1 patient underwent dacryocystorhinostomy. CONCLUSIONS: There might be anatomical abnormalities in the lacrimal drainage system although it is clinically diagnosed as functional nasolacrimal obstruction. Digital subtraction dacryocystography will provide a better understanding on various causes of epiphora, and give a precise diagnosis and proper treatment.