Endonasal Dacryocystorhinostomy, Our Experience

Background: In this study we present our experience of 32 Patients underwent endonasal DCR. They all operated on with one team consisting of Otolaryngologists and an ophthalmologist at Tripoli Medical center.

Objectives: To assess our performance and the success rate. Success was defined as the resolving of symptoms, unobstructed lacrimal system with irrigation and endoscopic visualization of a patent new ostium.

Method: Prospective study of a total 32 patients underwent the endonasal procedure. Results: A total of 32 microscopic and endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy performed and reviewed. In 5 cases combined nasal procedures were required. 4 patients (12,5%) needed septoplasty and one patient (3%) needed removal of a Rhinolith). The success rate was 81,3%, there were 15,6% functional failures and one patient (3%) needed revision surgery due to recurrent granulation tissue formation at the new ostium region. The follow-up period ranged from 3 months to two years. The procedure achieved 81,3 % success rate.

Conclusion: The described technique of endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy had a success rate comparable to that of external dacryocystorhinostomy, the ease of the operation and the smooth postoperative period with good results, indicates that this surgery is taking more wider place in the management of the nasolacrimal obstruction.

Keywords: Dacrocystorhinostomy; DCR; Endoscopic; Endonasal