Blocked tear duct

Posted by Tiera Lyon-Evans on May 30, 1999 at 19:56:37
My 18 mo old daughter has had continuous problems with her tear ducts since birth.  She was referred to ped. opthamologist at 6 mos because the left one had not cleared on own.  Tear duct probe was done on left only, followed by 1-2 weeks of drops and massaging.  Seemed fine until 14 mos old developed conjunctivitis again.  Did the antibiotic drop routine several times and finally it was decided both ducts were closed and needed probing.  This was done May 6, 1999, under anesthesia on outpatient surgery basis.  We followed up with 2 weeks of antibiotic drops and massaging at least 4-5 times per day.  We stopped the drops approximately one week ago and today she has again developed eye infections (large amounts of green matter in each eye, nearly sealing them shut in mornings).  Today being Sunday, the pediatrician gave me some Ciloxan to use for a week.  I don't know if I need to pursue a new opthamologist orPosted by HFHS M.D.-JL on May 31, 1999 at 10:17:47

I would recommend a probing with placement of silicone tubes to keep the system open.  The tubes are usually removed in the office 6 to 8 weeks later.  If you are not getting anywhere with your current ophthalmologist I would recommend seeing an ophthalmic plastic surgeon for evaluation and treatment.  This should be the definitive treatment.
Good luck.  This information was provided for medical educational purposes only.
HFHS M.D.-JL