Outcomes of probing with or without bicanalicular intubation in children aged three years and older: a decade of experience at a tertiary eye hospital
Journal of AAPOS, cilt.30, sa.3, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 30 Sayı: 3
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2026.104841
- Dergi Adı: Journal of AAPOS
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE
- İstanbul Yeni Yüzyıl Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Purpose: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of probing with or without bicanalicular intubation (BCI) for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) in children at least 3 years of age and to identify factors influencing surgical success. Methods: The medical records of children treated between 2014 and 2024 at Health Sciences University Beyoğlu Eye Training and Research Hospital were reviewed retrospectively. All patients underwent probing with or without bicanalicular silicone intubation (BCI) using the square knot technique. Surgical success was defined as resolution of symptoms and a normal fluorescein dye disappearance test. Results: A total of 95 children (116 eyes) were included. Mean patient age was 4.57 ± 1.98 years (range, 3-14). Mean follow-up was 15.5 ± 15.4 months. BCI was performed initially in 102 eyes. Mean tube retention was 66.8 ± 43.0 days. Overall success was 87%, increasing to 95% after reprobing and BCI in failed cases. Age, sex, obstruction type, canalicular stenosis, Rosenmüller’s valve hypertrophy, and inferior turbinate infracture were not significantly associated with success (P > 0.05). Tube retention for 45-90 days was significantly associated with higher success compared with retention <45 days (P = 0.013; OR = 12.75; 95% CI, 1.72-94.48). Conclusions: In our study cohort of children undergoing surgery for CNLDO at 3 years of age and older, probing and BCI achieved high success, especially if the tube was successfully retained for at least 45 days. Reintubation in failed cases can improve outcomes.