Radiological Assessment of Epiphora by Dacryocystography

Abstract

Objectives- To find out various causes of epiphora, level and type of block in lacrimal passage, lacrimal pump function, causes of failed dacryocystorhinostomy.

Materials and Methods- Dacryocystographywas done in 100 eyes of 83 patients of epiphora and divided in three groups , Epiphora with patent lacrimal system, non patent lacrimal system, and residual epiphora after the operation of dacryocystorhinostomy. Dacryocystography was performed by using 0.5-1 ml of urograffin 76% with the lacrimal cannula and X-ray during forceful injection of the dye. A-P lateral & PNS waters view (magnified) were taken by 500 na X-ray Machine.

Results- Incidence of epiphora was 41% Right eye, 39% Left eye, 20% both eyes. Male female ratio, 16:84. All age groups are affected almost equally with slight higher incidence in 6th decade in female.On the basis ofdacryocystography,Complete block in 60% cases, partial block in 9% cases,and no block was observed in 31% cases. Level of block was at Canalicular in 3%, at common canalicular in 7%, at lacrimal sac-duct junction in 84% and at lower end of nasolacrimal duct in 6% of cases. Prevalence of associated ENT disorders about in 24% and atonic sac in 4 cases.

Conclusions- Dacryocystography isa simple, easy, cheap, safe and less time consuming investigation, which can be done even at most peripheral level of health services where X-ray facilities are available.