Restoration of the patency of the nasolacrimal drainage system.

The anatomical lacrimal drainage system was restored in 30 patients who suffered from dacryostenosis and tearing. Previously, in order to alleviate these patients' symptoms, a dacryocystorhinostomy had had to be performed. In the new procedure, local anesthesia was given, and a 600-micron fiberoptic was introduced through the lacrimal drainage system to the obstruction area. A continuous 20 W/s Neodymium:YAG laser energy was used to reopen the drainage system. This is a simple office procedure. No skin cuts are required, no anatomical changes are made, and there is practically no bleeding. All patients returned to their normal everyday activity within a few hours after the procedure.