Tear ducts
The lacrimal ducts play a fundamental role in the proper functioning of the eye, ensuring the evacuation of tears to the nasal cavity. This often overlooked system contributes not only to visual comfort, but also to protecting the ocular surface from external aggression.
How do the tear ducts work?
Tears are produced continuously by the lacrimal gland, located in the upper, outer part of the eye socket. After moisturizing and protecting the surface of the eye, they are collected at the inner corner of the eyelid, then evacuated through two small orifices known as the tear ducts. tear points (upper and lower). From here, the tears travel through the tear ductsthe lacrimal sacthen the nasolacrymal ductwhich discharges them into the nasal cavity.
Frequent disorders of the tear ducts
- Excessive watering (epiphora), often a nuisance in everyday life
Infectionssuch as dacryocystitis (inflammation of the lacrimal sac)
A chronic eye irritationdue to stagnation of tears
These disorders can affect both infants (congenital obstruction) and adults, particularly with age or after certain infections or traumas.
Tear duct surgery
Tear duct surgery is generally considered when the tear duct is persistently obstructed and medical treatment is no longer sufficient to relieve symptoms. The most common procedure is dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)The aim is to create a new passageway between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity, enabling tears to flow normally. This surgery can be performed externally (through a small incision near the nose) or endonasally, using an endoscope. The procedure is generally well tolerated, and in most cases leads to a marked improvement in watery eyes and chronic infections.
After lacrimal duct surgery, regular follow-up is crucial to ensure the success of the procedure. Local care is often required, and a silicone tube may be temporarily placed to keep the tract open. Most patients experience a marked improvement, but medical supervision remains essential to prevent complications.
Support
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the disorder. It can range from local treatments (lacrimal duct massage, eye drops) to surgical interventions such as the dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), which involves re-establishing communication between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity. In all cases, an ophthalmological check-up is necessary to establish the correct diagnosis and propose appropriate treatment.
