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Abstract ID: 20-102
Botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of epiphora in lacrimal outflow obstruction.
Category: Lacrimal
Author: Michael Yulish
Base Hospital / Institution: Ziv Medical Center, Safed
Purpose
The lacrimal gland is innervated by the cholinergic fibers of seventh cranial nerve. Injection of botulinum toxin-A (BTA) in the lacrimal gland decreases tear production by blocking presynaptic release of acetylcholine into neuromuscular end plates of cholinergic nerve fibers. Is the Botulinum toxin injection effective for the treatment of epiphora in lacrimal outflow obstruction? Are there any serious complication of the procedure?
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 11 consecutive cases of patients with epiphora due to lacrimal outflow obstruction (canalicular obstruction or functional epiphora), who chose to have injections of botulinum toxin into the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland instead of surgery.
Results
14 eyes of 11 patients were injected. 8 patients noted significant epiphora symptoms improvement, two patients noted partial improvement, and one patient reported no improvement at all. No hematoma, dry eye symptoms significant worsening or diplopia were noted.
Conclusion
Our results show favourable outcomes for Botox treatment of lacrimal outflow obstruction in the patients seeking non-surgical treatment.
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