Trauma of the lacrimal drainage system: retrospective study of 32 patients.

AIM To assess retrospectively the results and complications of surgical techniques applied in the treatment of patients with trauma of the lacrimal drainage system. METHODS Out of 32 patients with lacrimal drainage system trauma included in the study, 25 were treated at the University Eye Clinic, Ljubljana Medical Center, Ljubljana, Slovenia, from 1999 to 2003, and 7 were referred for secondary repair from other health care institutions in the same time period. All patients with fresh injuries underwent surgery within 48 h. The patients were followed up to a year after surgery. We evaluated the function of the lacrimal drainage system by irrigation at the last follow-up visit. RESULTS Patent lacrimal drainage system was achieved in all 25 patients with primary reconstruction of the injury. Restenosis of the canaliculus occurred in 4 out of 7 patients after secondary reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS Early repair of the lacrimal drainage system eliminates complications in comparison with secondary repair. Repair of the lacrimal drainage system may be delayed for up to 48 h, if an experienced operating team is available.