Management of canalicular injury associated with eyelid burns
D. R. Meyer, R. C. Kersten, D. R. Kulwin, J. R. Paskowski and R. P. Selkin
Department of Ophthalmology, Albany (NY) Medical College, USA.
PURPOSE: To develop a protocol for treatment of injuries to the puncta and
canaliculi associated with eyelid burns. METHODS: We retrospectively
reviewed the records of seven patients who required treatment of punctal
and canalicular stenosis caused by burns to the medial eyelids. RESULTS:
Seven patients were treated within 5 days of injury: one by punctal
dilation and six by surgical debridement, punctoplasty or canaliculoplasty,
and silicone intubation. All remained free of epiphora. CONCLUSIONS: Early
evaluation and treatment of punctal and canalicular burn injuries are
beneficial. If the puncta are only slightly stenotic, close observation
with serial lacrimal testing and punctal dilation is recommended. If the
puncta and lateral canaliculi are severely stenotic or obliterated,
surgical debridement and punctoplasty or canaliculoplasty followed by
placement of a silicone stent effectively prevents permanent lacrimal
stenosis and epiphora.
