Factors Related to Success in Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (Success Factors in Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy)

Objective: Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EDCR) is a widely accepted surgical technique for the management of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Various factors may influence the success of this procedure; therefore, identifying these determinants is crucial for optimizing surgical outcomes. The aim of the present study was to investigate factors potentially affecting the success of EDCR.

Methods: A total of 287 sides from 261 adult patients diagnosed with chronic dacryocystitis who underwent EDCR were included in the study. Surgical success was defined as the absence of epiphora based on history and physical examination, confirmation of patent lacrimal system through irrigation, and presence of patent rhinostomy as determined by endoscopic examination. The impact of factors including sex, age, the type of anesthesia (general or local), preservation of nasal mucosal flap (with or without flap), surgical instrument used [mechanical (rongeur and chisel), powered (microdebrider)], presence of pus, and stent placement (with or without stenting) on surgical success was investigated based on the patients’ medical records.

Results: Out of the cases, 259 were successful, resulting in a success rate of 90.2%. Univariate analysis identified 3 variables with the potential to affect success. These variables were sex, surgical instrument used, and stent placement. Through multivariate analysis, the use of surgical instruments and stenting were identified as factors influencing success. The use of powered instruments and stent placement were found to be factors that increase success (odds ratios 3.621 and 5.316, respectively).

Conclusion: The use of powered instruments and stent placement emerged as factors that increase success in this study.