Repair of an Inferior Canalicular Laceration using a Flexible Mono-Canalicular Probe with Self-Stabilizing Meatic Fixation

Abstract

Canalicular lacerations represent the first cause of intervention in lacrimal traumatology. They are observed in 16% of eyelid wounds and 20% of eyeball lesions. They can be caused by both penetrating and blunt trauma. Various materials have been used to stent the torn canaliculus in the past. Medical grade silicone, due to its inert nature and flexibility, has become the material of choice for tear stenting. We report the case of a lower canalicular laceration repaired using a flexible mono-canalicular probe with self-stabilizing meatic fixation, to describe the course of the intervention, as well as the advantages and tolerance of this technique. True mono-canalicular intubation, using a flexible mono-canalicular probe with self-stabilizing meatic fixation, has several advantages over other lacrimal intubation techniques. The placement of this probe is essential, to ensure the correct alignment of the anastomosis and the lacrimal lumen during the healing phase, to prevent fibrosis and stenosis after canalicular repair and thus to maintain permeability.