Dilatation of the nasolacrimal duct under radiographic control.

Obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct is a major cause of epiphora, or tearing. The authors describe a method of dilating obstructions to re-establish drainage of the lacrimal sac which utilizes fluoroscopic control to stay within the natural lumen of the nasolacrimal duct. The procedure is simple to perform under local anesthesia. An unsuccessful dilatation does not interfere with subsequent dacrocystorhinostomy.