This study aims to investigate the effects of external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery on tear meniscus parameters and assess its relationship with improvements in quality of life (QoL) in patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO).
MethodsThis prospective study included 30 patients diagnosed with NLDO who underwent external DCR surgery.Tear meniscus (TM) parameters, including height, depth and area, were measured using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT). Lacrimal symptom questionnaire (Lac-Q), Munk scores and Glasgow bene t inventories (GBI) were collected. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between tear meniscus changes and improvements in QoL.
ResultsTM height, depth and area decreased from preoperative median measurements (0.09 mm 2 , 0.37 mm, 0.56 mm) to postoperative median measurements (0.03 mm 2 , 0.21 mm, 0.30 mm) (p < 0.001). Lacrimal symptom scores and Munk scores showed signi cant improvement at 3 months postoperatively (p < 0.001). The GBI scores also demonstrated a signi cant improvement, indicating a positive impact on the patients' QoL. (p < 0.001). A statistically signi cant correlation was found between the change in TM parameters and LacQ lacrimal symptom scores.
ConclusionExternal DCR surgery leads to signi cant improvements in tear meniscus parameters and quality of life outcomes in patients with NLDO. The decreased in TM height and TM area indicates improved tear lm dynamics and decreased tear volume, which positively impact the patients' ocular comfort and overall well-being. This study highlights the importance of tear meniscus evaluation as a potential market for assessing the success of DCR surgery and its impact on patients' QoL.