One-stitch anastomosis through the skin with bicanalicular intubation:a modified approach for repair of bicanalicular laceration

AIM:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of one-stitch anastomosis through the skin with bicanalicular silicone tube intubation in repairing of bicanalicular laceration.METHODS:The clinical data of 15 consecutive patients with both superior and inferior canalicular laceration in one eye who underwent surgical repair using one-stitch anastomosis through the skin and bicanalicular stent were retrospective studied.All the operations were performed under surgical microscope,5-0 silk sutures were used and were with bicanalicular silicone tube(diameter was 8mm) intubation,for one lacerated canaliculi one-stitch anastomosis through the skin.The stents were left in place for 3 months postoperatively and then removed.The follow-up period was 3-36 months(average 14 months). RESULTS:In 15 patients,13 patients were cured entirely,1 patient was meliorated,1 patient with no effects.All patients had got good recovery of eyelid laceration with no traumatic deformity in eyelid and canthus.Complication was seen in one case,for not followed the doctor’s guidance to come back to hospital to had the suture removed on the 7thday after operation,when he came at the 15thday,the inferior canalicular wall and eyelid skin were corroded by the suture caused 2mm wound,and the inside silicone tube was exposed,a promptly repair with 10-0 nylon suture was done,the wound healed in a week.There were no early tube protrusions and punctal slits in the patients.CONCLUSION:One-stitch anastomosis through the skin with bicanalicular silicone tube intubation is a good method in repair of bicanalicular laceration in one eye,the cut ends can be anastomosed directly,and with excellent cosmetic results,it is acceptable for the patients.For there is no suture remained in the wound permanently,so there is no suture-related granuloma which may cause obstruction or stenosis of canaliculi.It is simple,economical,effective and safe.