The Effect of Delayed Canaliculoplasty to Canalicular

Kim, S Y; Kim, D C

Abstract

Generally, canalicular laceration must be repaired within 48 hours after canalicular injury. Our study was done with 5 patients at whom canaliculoplasty was delayed more than 48 hours after canalicular laceration. We evaluated the result of delayed canaliculoplasty with bicanalicular siliconeintubation. After dissecting the healed wound, lacerated canaliculi were repaired with bicanalicualr silicone tube. Tube was removed at five to eight months post-operatively and the patients were followed for eight to twenty-five months (mean 13 months). Success was regarded when epiphora disappeared and irrigation solution was well passed without regurgitation at irrigation procedure. In 4 of 5 patients, success was noted and in 1 patient, epiphora improved but a small amount of irrigation solution was regurgitated. In conclusion, although canalicular repair was delayed for several days, we were able to repair lacerated canaliculi with satisfactory outcomes in this limited series of patients.