ABSTRACT.Purpose: Obstruction of the naso-lacrimal duct has traditionally been treated by dacryocystorhinostomy. This pilot project aimed to evaluate the use of stents as an alternative approach to the treatment of naso-lacrimal duct obstruction. Methods: Six patients with naso-lacrimal duct obstruction underwent a preprocedural dacryocystogram to confirm the site of obstruction. Under local anaesthesia, they subsequently underwent dilatation of the naso-lacrimal duct using a guide wire and a plastic dilator aided by fluoroscopy and digital subtraction imaging. The stent was then placed with its head in the lacrimal sac and tail protruding out of the naso-lacrimal duct into the inferior meatus. Dacryocystography was repeated to confirm patency. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months. Results: The procedure was successfully completed in four of the six patients. In one patient, we failed to negotiate the guide wire and in one, a false passage was created. All four successful cases were rendered asymptomatic and their lacrimal passages remained patent at 12 months. Conclusion: Naso-lacrimal duct dilatation and stenting is a viable alternative to conventional dacryocystorhinostomy in the treatment of naso-lacrimal duct obstruction and merits a larger trial.

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