Microsurgical Reconstruction for Canalicular Laceration Using Monostent® and Mini-Monoka

Many surgical techniques are available for repairing a lacerated canaliculus, such as, Worst pigtail probing, and monocanalicular or bicanalicular procedures involving silicone intubation. Despite this, controversy still exists regarding the best surgical method in terms of subjective and objective outcomes. We report the experience of microscopic canalicular repair using monocanalicular stents; Monostent (Eagle Vision Inc., Memphis, TN) and Mini-Monoka stents (FCI Ophthalmics, Marshfield Hills, MA) and compare these 2 products. Seventeen cases of canalicular lacerations in 15 consecutive patients underwent microscopic canalicular repair using a monocanalicular procedure with either a Monostent (Eagle Vision Inc.) (5 cases) or a Mini-Monoka stent (FCI Ophthalmics) (12 cases). Microscopic anastomosis of the canalicular mucosa was performed following the placement of a juxta canalicular suture to reduce tension. Subjective and objective flows of repaired lacrimal drainage systems were checked by saline injection using a Healon needle (Advanced Medical Optics, Inc., Santa Ana, CA) and dacryocystogram. Patent lacrimal drainage systems were achieved in 16 of the 17 cases, and mild epiphora was acceptable in 14 patients during follow-up. No cases of spontaneous punctal plug migration, stent displacement, eyeball irritation or inflammation, or granuloma formation were encountered. However, in one case, a Mini-Monoka stent (FCI Ophthalmics) was repeatedly extruded or clogged internally and replaced by Monostent (Eagle Vision Inc.). Although the latter had a larger conduit diameter, it was more flexible and had potentially folded on itself in the lacrimal sac, thus, obstructing flow in this case. Microscopic canalicular reconstruction using a Monostent (Eagle Vision Inc.) or Mini-Monoka stent (FCI Ophthalmics) offers a safe, effective, and straightforward means of acute lacrimal system injury treatment.