Surgery
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) Surgery for Tear Duct Obstruction
The tear system is vital for keeping our eyes healthy and comfortable. However, conditions like tear duct obstruction can disrupt this balance and cause various discomforts. In this article, you will find detailed information about the causes and symptoms of tear duct obstruction, as well as Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery, one of the most effective treatment methods.
What is Tear Duct Obstruction?
Tear duct obstruction is a condition that prevents tears from flowing normally into the nasal cavity. This blockage can develop due to various reasons, such as infections, inflammation, or structural abnormalities, and lead to uncomfortable symptoms. While tears clean and moisturize the eye surface, a blockage can impair this function and cause various eye problems.
Causes of Tear Duct Obstruction
Common causes of tear duct obstruction include:
• Congenital (Birth-related) Blockage: Frequently seen in newborns, this occurs when the tear ducts do not develop properly or are blocked at birth.
• Aging: Tear ducts may narrow and become blocked as a person ages.
• Infections: Chronic eye infections can lead to inflammation and blockage of the tear ducts.
• Trauma: Injuries to the face or nose area can damage the tear ducts.
• Tumors: Tumors near the tear ducts can block the ducts, preventing tear flow.
Symptoms of Tear Duct Obstruction
Common symptoms of tear duct obstruction include:
• Constant or excessive tearing (epiphora): Due to the inability of tears to drain properly, there is constant tear overflow.
• Redness and irritation in the eyes: Because the eyes remain constantly wet due to the blockage, irritation may occur.
• Swelling around the eyes: Blocked tear ducts can cause swelling around the eyes.
• Recurring eye infections: Tear duct obstruction increases the risk of infections.
• Pain or tenderness in the tear sac area: Accumulated tears in the tear sac can lead to inflammation and pain.
What is Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) Surgery?
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat tear duct obstructions. This surgery creates a new passage to bypass the blockage and restore normal tear flow. Depending on the severity and location of the obstruction, DCR can be performed either internally or externally.
Stages of the Surgery
Preparation:
• A detailed eye and nasal examination is performed before the surgery.
• Antibiotics and other medications may be prescribed before the surgery if necessary.
• Certain medications may need to be discontinued before the surgery, and your doctor will provide guidance on this.
Anesthesia:
• The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.
• In some cases, local anesthesia may be preferred, but general anesthesia is more common.
Incision:
• A small incision is made near the tear sac or inside the nose.
• An internal nasal incision is usually preferred for aesthetic reasons, as it leaves no visible scar.
Creating a New Pathway:
• A new passage is created at the site of the blockage.
• This can be done through the nose or externally, and is designed to bypass the obstruction.
Placement of a Stent or Tube:
• A small stent or tube may be placed to keep the newly created passage open.
• This stent or tube typically remains in place for several weeks or months after surgery.
Closing the Incision:
• The incision is closed with stitches, which are usually dissolvable.
Post-Surgery Care
Rest:
• It is important to rest for a few days after the surgery.
• Physical activities should be avoided, and the eyes should be protected.
Medication Use:
• You should take the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers regularly.
• Eye drops and nasal sprays may also be prescribed.
Follow-up Appointments:
• You should not miss follow-up appointments with your doctor after the surgery.
• Regular check-ups will be conducted until the stent or tube is removed.
Hygiene:
• Keeping the surgical area clean and dry reduces the risk of infection.
• Special nasal cleaning methods may be recommended for internal nasal incisions.
After DCR Surgery
Improvement in Tear Flow:
• Once the blockage is removed, tears will resume their normal flow.
• The problem of constant tearing will disappear.
Reduction in Discomfort and Pain:
• Pain and discomfort caused by the tear duct obstruction will be significantly reduced.
• Swelling and redness around the eyes will also improve.
Reduction in Infection Risk:
• The risk of eye infections and inflammation is minimized.
• A clean tear flow helps prevent infections.
Improvement in Quality of Life:
• The constant tearing and irritation in the eyes will disappear, improving quality of life.
• Vision quality improves, and daily activities can be performed more comfortably.
For healthy vision or to ask any questions you may have, feel free to contact us right away. We are here with the most suitable treatment options for you. To make an appointment, use the "Online Appointment" button, or for WhatsApp communication, click the "WhatsApp" button.
Contact
Internal Phone: 0 258 330 03 03
Mobile: 0 531 923 33 90 / 0 532 499 03 90
Prepared by: Prof. Dr. Cem Yıldırım