'Punctal switch' grafting for the treatment of dry eyes: our experience.

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of 'punctal switch' grafting, a proposed new technique for permanent punctal occlusion. We prospectively evaluated the results and complications in 22 patients (5 males and 17 females) who underwent the procedure in our department over a period of 3 years. Patients' ages ranged from 41 to 81 years. The average follow-up was 12.8 months. Subjective and clinical improvement was documented in 91% of the cases with a low rate of recanalization (9%). Only 1 patient developed epiphora postoperatively, and the operation has been successfully reversed in that case. There were no serious complications. As a conclusion, punctal switch grafting is an effective technique for permanent punctal occlusion. The complication rate is low, recanalization is rare and the occlusion can be reversed if symptomatic epiphora develops.