The Timing of Probing for Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Purpose: To investigate the outcome of probing according to age groups for nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Methods: Fourty-four patient's 66 eyes were included in the study, who were performed probing for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction between 2004-2006. Findings of 3 months postoperative period after probing were retrospectively reviewed. Patiens were called again for examination. A questionnaire was performed to all parents inquiring about the timing of symptom resolution after probing and whether symptoms had resolved completely or recurred. The same time flourescein disappear test were done. Results were evaluated according to age groups. Results: 44 consecutive patients, 24 females and 20 males, at right eyes of 9 patients (% 20.45), at left eyes of 13 patients (% 29.55) and bilateral of 22 patients (% 50) were entered into this study. Mean probing age was 27.3 month old (6-60 month) and mean follow up was 11.8 month (3-24 month). Fifthy-eigth in 66 eyes (% 87.9) results were succesful. Probing achieved successful results in 8 out of 8 eyes (% 100) aged 1 month to 12 months; 21 out of 26 eyes (% 80.7) aged 13 months to 24 months; 16 out of 18 eyes (% 88,8) aged 25 to 48 months; 13 out of 14 eyes (% 92.8) aged 49 to 60 months. Considering failure group, 5 out of 7 patients repeated epiphora 1-3 month after probing. Discussion: In all age groups, probing is effective and preferential surgical method for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruciton. Between 0-1 age group, hydrostatic massage and medical treatment are first therapeutic option. However at the older age group, probing is performed with good results. Probing success should be evaluated at least after 3 month follow up period.