Anatomical and functional outcomes of canalicular laceration repair with self retaining mini-MONOKA stent

Abstract

AimTo evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of canalicular laceration repair with self retaining monocanalicular intubation system (Mini-MONOKA). Materials and methodsThe data of 29 patients undergoing canalicular laceration repair from 2010 to 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Operative details and complications were noted. The stent was removed earliest at 3months. Anatomical and functional success was defined by a patent syringing and the absence of epiphora respectively. ResultsOut of 29 patients, 23 (79.3%) were males. Mean age at presentation was 19.3 ±13.8years. Lower canaliculus was involved in 19 (65.5%), upper in 8 (27.5%) and both canaliculi in 2 (6.8%). Ten patients presented later than 11days after trauma (range 12–168days), and repair was attempted successfully in all.Fourteen (48.2%) cases reported for stent removal, at a mean follow-up period of 4.64 ±2.12months. Anatomical success was noted in 12 (85.71%) and functional success in 13 (92.85%) cases. Four patients had stent related complications. ConclusionCanalicular injuries are more common in young males. Mini-MONOKA stents are easy to insert and retrieve, and yield excellent anatomical and functional outcome. Canalicular laceration repair can be attempted successfully irrespective of the delay in presentation.