| abstract |
A temporary transnasal lacrimal insert is used in a surgical procedure for improving drainage from a patient's lacrimal sac to his or her nasal cavity. The insert includes a tubular member with a proximal end and an enlarged distal end. The insert also includes an attachment element about which ends of a silastic tube can be fastened. In the procedure, a hole is created extending from the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity using surgical techniques or a laser probe. Then, opposite ends of a silastic tube are introduced through the patient's upper and lower puncta, through the patient's upper and lower canaliculi, through the lacrimal sac, through the hole, and into the nasal cavity. The ends of the silastic tube are then threaded through the passage in the insert. The insert is then placed from the nasal cavity into the hole by forcing the proximal end of the insert through the hole and into the lacrimal sac, and abutting the enlarged distal end, which is larger than the hole, against a surface in the nasal cavity surrounding the hole. The ends of the silastic tube are then fastened to the attachment element of the insert. Excess tube extending into the nasal cavity is then cut short to reduce nasal irritation. After the hole has sufficiently healed in about 3-6 months, the silastic tube and the insert are removed. |