Purpose

to compare the clinical outcomes of primary convential silicone tube intubation versus nasal endoscopy assisted intubation.

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Methods

: This clinical randomized study was carried out on 160 eyes of 119 patients with CNLDO, divided into two groups: each group included 80 eyes. The first group underwent conventional bicanicular silicone tube intubation, and the second group underwent endoscopy-assisted silicone tube intubation. All patients underwent full ophthalmological examinations and outcomes were assessed using the Munk score and fluorescein dye disappearance test (FDDT).

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Results

160 eyes of 119 patients were included in the study; Group (A), the conventional group, and Group (B), the endoscopy-assisted intubation group; each included 80 eyes. The overall Success rates defines as the sum of complete and partial successs was comparable between the two groups: 86.25 % in group (A) & 92.5% in group (B).
Endoscopic assisted intubation showed faster postoperative rehabilitation than the conventional group with less intra- and postoperative blood loss.

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Conclusion

Both conventional and endoscopy-assisted silicone tube intubation are effective treatments for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction with comparable long-term success. Endoscopy-assisted intubation offers better early postoperative outcomes while conventional intubation remains a reliable and cost-effective option in resource-limited settings. Surgical approach selection should be individualized according to resources, surgeon experience, and patient factors.

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Additional Authors

First name	Last name	Base Hospital / Institution
Rania	El essawy	Cairo university
Rana	Ahmed	Cairo university
Sameh	Hassan	Cairo university
Kareem	Elessawy	Cairo university
Hesham	Ezzat	Cairo university

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