Symptomatic cicatrizial occlusion of canaliculi after insertion of Herrick lacrimal plugs.

Abstract

To report severe symptomatic complications following bilateral insertion of Herrick lacrimal plugs. Interventional case report. Bilateral clinical, surgical, and histologic findings in a patient with surgical revision of canaliculi after plug insertion. A 55-year-old patient presented with recurrent inflammation, discharge, and epiphora 24 months after insertion of lacrimal plugs; surgical intervention and partial resection of the cicatrized canaliculi was necessary. Light microscopic histology revealed canaliculi destruction, reactive tissue embedding of the plugs, and dissociated plug material. The application of Herrick lacrimal plugs may not be reversible and may require invasive surgical intervention.