Lacrimal System Obstructions Fort Myers

Lacrimal glands produce tears.  Tears are then spread by blinking of the eyelid. The nasolacrimal duct drains tears from the eyes through an inner tube into the nose.  Many conditions may effect the proper functioning of this vital system.  If the lacrimal duct does not produce enough tears, dry eyes may occur.

Some causes are:

Tear duct obstruction: If the nasolacrimal duct is not open appropriately, tearing may occur. Occasionally tears may become stagnant in the area and become infected.

Congenital obstruction: Approximately 7 % of infants are born with obstruction of the tear duct. Initial treatment involves massaging the area.  If the condition persists, the tear duct may need to be probed.  If the tearing continues, a more advanced procedure may be necessary which requires placement of a tube in the duct to keep it patent.

Acquired obstruction: The most common procedure for correcting a blocked tear duct in an adult is called a DCR (Dacryocystorhinostomy).  This procedure requires a new passage to be created between the blocked sac into the nose.  A stent may be placed to temporarily to keep the duct open while the passage heals.  If the obstruction cannot be opened, a glass “Jones tube” may need to be placed.

Contact our office for a consultation or call 239-947-4042.