Lacrimal lavage is a washing procedure performed to check whether the tear duct is open or to remove obstruction. If the tear duct is blocked, complaints such as watering, crusting and infection occur. Lacrimal lavage is a quick, painless and safe procedure to understand and treat the level of this obstruction.
Why is lacrimal lavage performed?
- Constant watering in the eyes
- Tears flowing down the cheek
- Recurrent eye infections
- Suspicion of blockage in the tear duct
- Canal control after eye surgery
How to Perform Lacrimal Lavage?
The procedure is performed by an ophthalmologist in an outpatient clinic and takes only a few minutes. Numbing drops are applied to the eye. Serum is injected into the tear duct with the help of a thin, special cannula. It is observed whether the liquid passes into the nose. If the liquid passes easily into the nose, the channel is open; If it comes back, it means the channel is clogged.
What to do if a blockage is detected?
- Reopening the channel (probing)
- Medication if there is infection
- Surgical intervention if necessary (dacryocystorhinostomy – DSR)
Benefits of Lacrimal Lavage
- The patency of the tear duct is quickly checked
- Obstruction is treated early
- Eye watering and infection complaints are reduced
- It is a simple, short and painless procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lacrimal lavage painful?
No. After instilling numbing drops into the eye, sometimes a slight pressure may be felt during the procedure, but no pain or pain is felt.
Is lacrimal lavage safe in babies?
Yes. Tear duct obstruction is common, especially in babies, and lacrimal lavage alone is often sufficient and the duct can open spontaneously.
When does normal return occur after lacrimal lavage?
After the procedure, the patient can immediately return to daily activities. A slight feeling of tension passes in a short time.
