Tears are essential for the health of the eyes, as they keep them moist, clean, and protected from infections. When there is an obstruction or blockage in the tear duct, the normal flow of tears is disrupted. This can lead to various ocular problems such as:
- Excessive tearing: When tears cannot drain properly, they can accumulate in the eye and overflow onto the cheeks, causing discomfort and inconvenience.
- Dry eyes: A lack of tears can cause the eyes to feel dry, irritated, and uncomfortable, affecting vision and quality of life.
- Recurring infections: Altered tear flow can increase the risk of eye infections, as tears cannot effectively wash away bacteria and viruses.
In these cases, tear duct reconstruction can be an effective solution to restore the normal flow of tears and relieve the symptoms associated with obstruction.
How does tear duct reconstruction work?
Tear duct reconstruction is a surgical procedure tailored to the individual needs of each patient. The type of technique used will depend on the cause and severity of the obstruction. Some of the most common techniques include:
- Dilation of the tear ducts: In cases of mild obstructions or narrow ducts, special probes or dilators may be used to open the ducts and allow for better drainage of tears.
- Placement of prostheses or tear tubes: When the tear ducts are severely damaged or blocked, tubes or prostheses may be placed to keep them open and ensure proper drainage of tears.
- Surgery to create a new tear duct: In complex cases or when the previous techniques are insufficient, more extensive surgery may be performed to create a new tear duct. This involves creating a new channel or conduit between the eyes and the nasal cavity, allowing tears to drain properly.
