Evaluation of effect of absorbable gelatin sponge (gel foam) nasal packing in external dacrocystorhinostomy

Abstract

The success rate of external DCR has been reported to an exemplary level with variation regard to the surgeon’s skill, competence and experience. The relatively high success rates of external DCR does not detract from the limitations of the procedure. Intra operative difficulty and Post-operative morbidity have led to search for modifications in the technique. Gel foam helps to reduce bleeding in the post-operative period and improves the surgical outcome.The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect absorbable gelatin sponge(gel foam) nasal packing in external dacryocystorhinostomy.Study was done at M M Joshi Eye Institute, Hubli and the subjects was divided into two groups. Group A had 21 patients, and they underwent External DCR without gelfoam nasal packing(control group) and Group B (study group) had 20 patients, and they underwent External DCR with gelfoam nasal packing. The postoperative results was compared between the two groups. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS 20.0 version, Chi- square test was done for analysis. P value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant. The study found out absorbable gelatin sponge (gel foam) nasal packing in external dacryocystorhinostomy would help in reduced postoperative bleeding frequency, bleeding time and increased anatomical success rate.Postoperative heamostasis was attained successfully by using absorbable packing material such as gelfoam.