Probing under Local Anesthesia for Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Background: Obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct is the most common abnormality of the lacrimal system in childhood leading to epiphora. It is found in about 20% of newborns. If not treated in time, it may be complicated by recurrent conjunctivitis, chronic dacryocystitis, and lacrimal abscess formation. Objectives: To study the outcome and complications of probing for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction under local anesthesia. Materials and Methods: In this hospital based prospective interventional study, probing was done under topical anesthesia (lidocaine 4%) in 100 patients (124 eyes) in the age group of 6 months to 12 months, over a period of 2 years in which conservative treatment with antibiotic drops and sac massage had failed. Results: Success rate of this procedure was 93.5% with first and 96.8% after second probing without any untoward complication. Conclusion: Probing under topical anesthesia is a safe, quick and convenient method of treatment for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction.