Nasolacrimal duct rhinostomy for low-level nasolacrimal duct obstruction:long-term outcomes and surgical selection paradigm

This study aims to present long-term outcomes in a specific patient population experiencing epiphora due to low-level nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) following endonasal endoscopic nasolacrimal duct rhinostomy, and to propose a surgical selection paradigm for varying locations of NLDO.

Between September 1, 2017 and February 28, 2023, a retrospective analysis was conducted on 26 patients diagnosed with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) who underwent endonasal endoscopic nasolacrimal duct rhinostomy for low-level NLDO (defined as obstruction below the plane of the superior border of the inferior turbinate attachment). The study assessed surgical success through objective measures of anatomical patency and subjective measures of functional patency during a postoperative follow-up period of at least six months. Additionally, any complications that arose during this follow-up period were documented.

The study included a cohort of 26 patients, consisting of 24 women and 2 men, with a mean age of 47.58 ± 3.09 years (range: 8–75). All patients underwent endoscopic nasolacrimal duct rhinostomy, with 10 eyes having previously undergone tear duct recanalization procedures. Anatomical patency was achieved in 88.5% (23/26) of cases, while functional patency was achieved in 80.8% (21/26) after an average follow-up period of 41.9 ± 22.1 months. No significant complications were observed in any of the patients during the follow-up period.

Endonasal endoscopic nasolacrimal duct rhinostomy is effective in treating epiphora in over 80% of cases with low-level NLDO. Tailoring the surgery to the location of the obstruction can improve outcomes and minimize damage.