Aim To assess the long-term anatomical and functional outcomes of primary powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).

Methods Retrospective review of all primary powered endoscopic DCR's performed over a 10-year period from 2003 to 2012. A minimum of 12 months follow-up after stent removal was required for inclusion into this study. Patient records were reviewed for demographic data, clinical and surgical profiles, adjunctive procedures, complications and success rates at last follow-up. Anatomical success was defined as a patent ostium on irrigation, and functional success as free flow of dye into ostium, and resolution of epiphora.

Results Ninety powered endoscopic DCRs were performed on 69 patients. The mean age at surgery was 58.7 years (range 4–91 years). All patients presented with epiphora. 50.7% (35/69) patients underwent adjunctive endonasal procedures. The mean follow up was 21.8 months (range: 12–103 months). No intraoperative complications were noted. Postoperative complications noted included postoperative bleeding, ostium granuloma and membrane over internal common opening in one patient each. At last follow-up, the final anatomical success was achieved in 97.7% and functional success in 95.5% of the cases.

Conclusions Powered endoscopic DCR is a safe procedure and offers excellent long-term results. Adjunctive endonasal procedures should be performed where indicated.