Role of silicon stent in endoscopic DCR

Endoscopic DCR is preferred for its scarless, minimally invasive technique. Many modifications including placement of silicon stents has been done over the years to reduce the recurrence. Endonasal endoscopic and External DCR approaches have their own advantages and disadvantages. Endoscopic DCR is one of the several techniques to unblock the nasolacrimal duct. Methods: our study included 40 patients with epiphora having obstruction in the nasolacrimal duct. All the patients underwent Endoscopic DCR with silicon stent placement. Patients were followed postoperatively for a period of 6months -2 years. Results: Results of my study were compared with endoscopic DCR without stent and classical external DCR. We found that DCR with stent had less chances of recurrence and synechia formation. Results at 2 year follow up have been good with more than 90 percent symptoms relieved completely. Conclusion: Endoscopic DCR is a safe, cast effective alternative for external DCR in patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. We found that endoscopic DCR with stent had several advantages over more conventional external approach.