Endoscopic DCR with and without prolene stent in rural area: a prospective randomized study

Background: The objective of the study was to compare the results of endoscopic DCR with and without prolene stentingand to assess subjective and anatomical success in patients undergoing prolene stenting. Methods: The surgical outcomes of endoscopic endonasal DCR was compared in 100 patients of chronic dacryocystitiswith nasolacrimal duct obstructionfrom June 2013 to May 2018. The successful outcome of surgery was defined by subjective improvement of symptoms and anatomical patency of the neo- ostiumon syringing by nasal endoscopy. Results: In our study females were predominant in both groups with around 60% being females in group with stentingand 64% in group without stenting. Male to female ratio was 1:1.5 and 1:1.77 in group with stentingand without stenting. The symptomatic success rate of the surgery at the end of 3 months was 92% in group without stentingand 88% in group with stenting. There was no statistical difference in the results of two groups. Conclusions: We recommend that stentingis not routinely required for endoscopic DCR surgeries. A selective stentingapproach may be advocated using prolene3-0, using stentingfor specific indications. With proper surgical technique and good follow up, endoscopic DCR without stentingis treatment of choice for chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction.