TEAR DUCT, OPENING OF

General Information

DEFINITION-Opening of tear ducts (also called lacrimal ducts) in the corners of the eyes closer to the nose. They may be blocked by infection or foreign material, or may be incompletely open in newborns.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED-Tear glands and tear ducts, usually in newborns, infants or young children.

REASONS FOR SURGERY-Infection or complete blockage that does not respond to simple treatment.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES-Ophthalmologist, pediatric surgeon, general surgeon or ear, nose and throat specialist.

WHERE PERFORMED-Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA

• Local anesthesia by injection or topical application (sometimes).
• General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The tear duct is expanded, probed and irrigated until fluid flows freely through it. The procedure is repeated on the other tear duct.
• Sutures are not needed. Bleeding should not be a problem.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS-Surgical-wound infection.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY-0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME-Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 10 days for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Bathe your child as usual.
• Use a warm compress to relieve pain in the surgical area.

† You may give your child non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY--Avoid vigorous exercise for 1 week after surgery.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

Any of the following occurs:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Pain, swelling, redness or drainage in the surgical area.
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.