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Tear Duct Blockage Surgery


Tear duct obstruction is a condition that prevents tears from flowing from the eye to the nose. Normally, tears moisturize and protect the surface of the eye. However, when these ducts are blocked, tears begin to accumulate and various unpleasant symptoms appear. The tear ducts are made up of thin tubes that start from the lacrimal glands in our eyes and extend to the nasal cavity. The blockage can occur anywhere in these tubes and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems such as infection or inflammation.

Tear duct obstruction is a condition that can occur in both children and adults. Tear duct obstruction is a common problem, especially in newborn babies. In this case, the tear ducts may not open immediately after birth and may require treatment. In adults, on the other hand, congestion is usually caused by aging, injury, or certain health conditions.

Tear duct obstruction can affect eye health and cause discomfort in everyday life. Therefore, it is important to recognize their symptoms and seek professional help when necessary. Now, let's take a closer look at the symptoms of tear duct obstruction.

Symptoms of Tear Duct Obstruction

Symptoms of tear duct obstruction may vary from person to person, but in general they can be listed as follows:

  1. Constant Watering: When the tear duct is blocked, the eyes may water excessively. This causes tears to come out of the eyes to ensure their normal flow.
  2. Redness and Irritation of the Eyes: The accumulation of tears can lead to irritation on the surface of the eyes. This can cause red eyes and discomfort.
  3. Pain or Discomfort: Congestion can lead to discomfort or pain around the eyes. This pain can increase over time and adversely affect daily life.
  4. Signs of Infection: When tears accumulate due to congestion, the risk of infection increases. Signs of infection include inflammation, yellow or green discharge, and swelling of the eye.

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist. Early detection and treatment are critical to controlling the condition before it gets worse. Now, let's look at the causes of tear duct obstruction.

Causes of Tear Duct Obstruction

The factors that cause tear duct obstruction are varied. Among them:

  • Congenital Anomalies: In some babies, the tear ducts may be congenitally blocked. This prevents tears from reaching the nasal cavity from the eye.
  • Aging: Over time, the tear ducts can become narrowed or blocked. The aging process brings with it many physical changes that affect the production and flow of tears.
  • Infections: Eye infections can affect the tear ducts, causing inflammation. This can lead to congestion.
  • Injuries: Injuries to the eye area can lead to damage to the tear ducts. Such injuries can bring about the problem of congestion.

These reasons play an important role in the formation of congestion. Consulting an ophthalmologist for a diagnosis of tear duct obstruction is essential to create an accurate treatment plan. Now let's look at the methods of diagnosing tear duct obstruction.

Tear duct obstruction diagnostic methods

Various methods are used to diagnose tear duct obstruction. These methods include:

  1. Eye Examination: The ophthalmologist will first examine your eyes and evaluate your symptoms. It is important to check the condition of the surface of the eye and the flow of tears.
  2. Probe Test: This test is done to determine if the tear ducts are open. Using a thin probe, the tear ducts are reached and checked for obstruction.
  3. Tear Test: Special tests can be done to evaluate your tear production. These tests help determine how much tears your eyes are producing.
  4. Imaging Methods: Imaging methods such as ultrasound or MRI can also be used to learn more about the condition of the tear ducts.

These diagnostic methods are important for determining the cause and severity of tear duct obstruction. An accurate diagnosis ensures a successful execution of the treatment process. Now let's look at the indications and preparation process of tear duct obstruction surgery.

Tear Duct Obstruction Surgery: Indications and Preparation

Tear duct obstruction surgery may be necessary depending on the severity of the obstruction. Some indications for surgery are:

  • Excessive Tear Flow: Continuous accumulation of tears and excessive watering.
  • Infection: Recurrent eye infections and inflammation.
  • Eye Comfort: Discomfort and pain in the eyes.

Before the surgery, your doctor will inform you to make the necessary preparations. In the preliminary stages, the following should be taken into account:

  1. Medical History: You should tell your doctor about your medical history and current health condition. It is also important to provide information about the medications you are taking.
  2. Examination: A comprehensive eye examination is performed before surgery. This examination is carried out with the aim of determining the cause and severity of the blockage.
  3. Date of Surgery: Once the date of surgery is determined, you should avoid any risk of infection until this date.

It is important to carefully follow these preparatory stages in order for the surgical process to proceed successfully. Now, let's take a look at the lacrimal duct obstruction surgery techniques.

Tear duct obstruction surgery techniques

Tear duct obstruction surgery can be performed with different techniques depending on the cause of the obstruction. Among these techniques are:

  1. Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): This technique aims to open a new path between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity. The area where the obstruction is located is surgically opened.
  2. Probing and Lavage: This process is done by using a thin probe to open the tear duct. The area where the blockage is located is reached and washing is applied when necessary.
  3. Endoscopic Surgery: This method is performed using endoscopic devices to remove blockages inside the tear ducts. It is a less invasive method and provides a quick healing process.
  4. Pressure and Massage Techniques: In some cases, if the obstruction is mild, the tear ducts can be opened by applying pressure and massage.

Each technique is selected and applied according to the patient's condition. In the postoperative period, your doctor will closely monitor the healing process. Early intervention is of great importance in the treatment of tear duct obstruction.

 

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