What Is Lacrimal Syringing ?

It is a common procedure performed by an ophthalmologist ( or an ENT surgeon ) wherein fluid (normal saline ) is passed from one end of the tear drainage system ( lacrimal apparatus ) to see whether it emerges from the other end. Thus we can easily asses whether the tear drainage system is patent or blocked.

Why Is Lacrimal Syringing Done ?
When a patient complains of  excessive watering of the eyes , the doctor has to check whether his/her tears are draining properly..ie whether the watering eyes are due to a block in the tear drainage system.

1. To check the tear drainage system (naso lacrimal duct ) for any blockage ( the site and nature of the block ).
2. To flush out debris from the tear drainage system ( eg due to any infection ) .
3. In India it is done before cataract surgery to rule out chronic dacryocystitis ( infection of the nasolacrimal sac ) .
4. To instill antibiotics in the tear drainage system and also dye for X rays.

How Do The Tears Drain ?(the tear drainage system/lacrimal apparatus )
























Easy Step-by-Step Guide To Lacrimal Syringing


Equipment you'll need :

Normal Saline

Syringe 2 ml

Topical Anesthetic Eye Drops

Nettleship's Punctum Dilator

Lacrimal Cannula

Lacrimal Syringing Equipment Set