The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of probing, either one or both canaliculi, as a primary treatment for epiphora and/or mucous discharge, secondary to congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO).

The medical records of forty-eight children (77 eyes) with CNLDO who underwent probing with irrigation either one or both puncta between January 2013 and December 2016 were reviewed retrospectively. Inclusion criteria were no prior nasolacrimal surgical procedure, history of epiphora and/or discharge since birth or shortly after birth in one or both eyes and at least one of the following clinical signs: epiphora, muco-purulent discharge and increased tear meniscus height. Children were all similar > 18 months and ≤ 3 years of age at time of probing; First group 31 eyes/20 children had dilatation and irrigation of both upper and lower puncta and group 2 (46 eyes/28 children) underwent only lower punctum probing. The primary outcome was the complete disappearance of symptoms and signs in the affected eye(s), assessed at 3 months after surgery.

The success rate for the overall sample was 85,7 % (66/77 eyes), in group 1 was 87,1% (27/31) and in group 2 was 84,8% (39/46). There was no significant difference in success rate between groups (p=0.776). Gender, affected eye and bilateral cases were not associated with successful elimination of symptoms.

Probing both or one canaliculus for CNLDO after 18 months of age is both successful and comparable efficacy rates as the occlusion is usually at the distal end. This study is meaningful as only probing and irrigation of one punctum is time efficient and healthier as the duration needed for general anesthesia is shorter.