Stenosis of the common canaliculus. Correction with a canalicular rod.

Abstract

A SIMPLE canalicular rod technique has proved effective for correcting stenosis of the ampullary portion of the common canaliculus. Technique Inject the stenosed area of the canaliculus with lidocaine. Pass a probe (Bowman's No. 1 or No. 2) through the upper and the stenosed common canaliculus and into the opening of the lacrimal sac (Fig 1). When the probe is withdrawn, test patency by lavaging saline through the upper and the lower channels. The fluid which is flushed through both passages should flow freely into the nose. Insert a stainless steel canalicular rod (with a 4-0 surgical silk suture swaged to one end) through the upper canaliculus. The distal end of the rod should extend through the previously obstructed portion of the canaliculus and rest on the medial wall of the lacrimal sac. The proximal end of the rod should lie within the upper canaliculus, and only the suture should