Management lacrimal sac abscesses using lacrimal probe and crawford silicon tube

BACKGROUND: Treatment of lacrimal sac abscess of the traditional surgical approach may result in complications from cutaneous fistula formation, damage the sac, cause skin scarring and even have the potential for inducing cicatricial ectropion. We designed a new treatment scheme that is expected to achieve internal drainage with the use of lacrimal probe and crawford silicon tube. METHODS: A prospective study was performed for the management of lacrimal sac abscesses. All suitable patients from January 2011 to June 2014 were managed by lacrimal probe and crawford tube insertion. Postoperatively, patients received 0.5% Levofloxacin eye drops four times per day and oral Levofloxacin tablets 0.5 g once per day for four days. Follow-up times were for more than three months after removing the Crawford tube. The condition of the lacrimal sac and the patient’s symptoms were carefully evaluated. RESULTS: Fourteen patients suffering from lacrimal sac abscesses were included in this study. A history of chronic dacryocystitis was found in six patients, after acute dacryocystitis was found in three patients, and nasolacrimal occlusion with epiphora was found in other five patients. Resolution of signs and symptoms of lacrimal sac abscesses in all fourteen patients. No recurrence of lacrimal sac abscesses occurred during the median follow up period of 20.9 ± 7.8 months (range 6–36 months). Epiphora reoccurred in four patients. CONCLUSIONS: Lacrimal probe and crawford silicon tube is successful as a procedure of choice for lacrimal sac abscesses. The insertion of a Crawford tube also offers potential advantages over standard treatment with the lack of recurrence of dacryocystitis or infection in post-surgical patients.