Outcomes and reasons for dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) at KCMC, a Tanzanian referral hospital, 2001-2006.

BACKGROUND External dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a surgical intervention aimed to treat blocked nasolacrimal ducts of almost all causes. To date there is only limited data available from the Sub Saharan African setting. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to provide further information of the outcomes of DCR in Africa. METHODS Records of all patients undergoing external DCR operations from January 2001 to April 2006 were systematically searched. 55 patients were identified and notes were available for 45 patients. RESULTS Discharge and epiphora were resolved in 90.9% (30/33) and 84.4% (27/32) of patients respectively. Over half the cases (51.1%) were children. The commonest reason for operation was chronic dacryocystitis (51.1%). Outcomes for DCR were not significantly different for either children or adults and a clear improvement of symptoms was found in the vast majority of cases. CONCLUSION This study provides information on the outcomes of DCR in the African population. An 84.4% cure rate of epiphora and 90.9% cure rate of discharge is comparable with findings in other developing countries. This study supports the continued use of this intervention in skilled hands for treatment of blocked nasolacrimal duct.