Tear duct explorations

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Tear Duct Explorations

Recommended for 1-Year-Old Babies

  • Over 95% Success Rate

What Do They Involve?

Tear duct explorations are a surgical procedure typically indicated for children (between 9 months and 1 year old) to treat congenital tear duct obstruction.

When Is It Carried Out?

  • In patients with tear duct obstruction

Prior Examinations

  • A full ophthalmological examination and eyelid and periocular examination.
  • The tear fluid meniscus is assessed to evaluate the quantity of tear fluid accumulating in the lower eyelid margin. This helps determine whether the tear duct is obstructed.
  • The lacrimal sac is also assessed to check for tear retention, which can lead to infections if the tears are not draining properly.

During the Operation

  • The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and, in children, is usually done under general anaesthesia.
  • A thin wire is guided through the tear duct to open the membranes blocking the tear duct and allow proper drainage of tears.

After the Operation

  • The results are practically immediate, but the final results become noticeable after a few weeks.