Flap reconstruction techniques in conjunctivorhinostomy.

Abstract

Dacryocystorhinostomy is usually the standard approach to treat epiphora caused by lower lacrimal tract obstruction. When the pathologic condition lies in the upper lacrimal passage, however, alternate bypass or reconstructive options must be considered. Conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy, using the Jones tube, can effectively bypass the upper tract, but the technique may be complicated by granulation tissue formation, infection from unapposed mucosal flaps, and inefficient passage of tears through scar as a result of healing by secondary intention. Canaliculodacryocystorhinostomy affords the advantages of a physiologic reconstruction, but is limited by availability of sufficient canaliculus, requires a lengthy and tedious dissection, and must be performed using a microsurgical approach. We describe an alternate technique of conjunctivorhinostomy that provides total lacrimal bypass and has the advantages of bipedicled mucosal flap apposition, temporary stenting, and symptomatic improvement of epiphora. Several case examples illustrate the indications, advantages, and disadvantages of this technique.