RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Endolacrimal laser assisted lacrimal surgery
JF British Journal of Ophthalmology
JO Br J Ophthalmol
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.
SP 16
OP 18
DO 10.1136/bjo.84.1.16
VO 84
IS 1
A1 Klaus Muellner
A1 Elisabeth Bodner
A1 Geva E Mannor
A1 Gerald Wolf
A1 Thiemo Hofmann
A1 Wolfgang Luxenberger
YR 2000
UL http://bjo.bmj.com/content/84/1/16.abstract
AB AIMS To utilise the improved optical qualities of newly developed lacrimal endoscopes and newly miniaturised laser fibres for diagnostic visualisation and laser surgery of the lacrimal system. METHODS A KTP laser (wavelength 532 nm, 10 W energy) was used for laser assisted dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with endolacrimal visualisation in 26 patients. Bicanalicular silicone intubation was placed in all patients for at least 3 months. RESULTS After 3–9 months of follow up, the silicone tube in all 21 patients who underwent KTP laser DCR are still patent, three patients have eye watering in extremely cold weather and two required a conventional DCR. CONCLUSIONS The KTP laser generates enough power to open the bony window in DCR surgery. Precise endolacrimal visualisation via a specially designed miniendoscope is essential for surgical success.