PROCEDURES | LACRIMAL | BLOCKED TEAR DUCT
Syringing of lacrimal system (procedure code C2650)
Tears are essential for maintaining healthy eyes, providing lubrication, and washing away irritants. When the tear ducts, which drain tears from the eyes into the nose, become blocked, it can lead to excessive tearing, eye irritation, discomfort, and even infection.
This condition, known as tear duct obstruction or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, can affect people of all ages, from newborns to adults. While some cases may resolve on their own, particularly in infants, others require intervention to restore proper drainage.
The first and most simple intervention is to syringe the nasolacrimal system through with saline. This procedure may cause a resolution of the obstruction and will also help to diagnose if a surgical intervention is needed.
Dacryocystorhinostomy(procedure code C2540)
​One effective and commonly performed procedure for treating tear duct obstruction is Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery.
This operation creates a new tear duct to bypass the blocked tear duct which will enter the nose at a higher level. The usual indication for DCR is complete or partial obstruction of the tear drainage system (Nasolacrimal Duct).
The procedure is performed as an open operation, involving a cut in the skin on the side of your nose. A loop of fine soft plastic tube (nasolacrimal tubing) is threaded from the opening of the tear duct on the inner corner of your upper and lower eyelid through the new channel and into your nose.
This tube stays in place for 2 months to keep the new passage open whilst healing. DCR operations are carried out as day case procedures and you can usually return home the same day, although sometimes an overnight stay may be required.