Comparative analysis of laser assisted endoscopie and conventional endoscopie dacryocystorhinostomy

Background: Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is the standard surgical treatment for epiphora caused by obstructions distal to the common canaliculus. Endoscopic DCR (EDCR) and laser assisted DCR (LAEDCR) are becoming increasingly popular alternatives. Method: 69 cases of EDCR were compared with 18 cases of LAEDCR. The success rates were noted at 01 week, 01, 03 and 06 months. The operating time required, incidence of adjuvant procedures, complications and post operative morbidity were recorded. Results: At the end of 06 months, 100% and 95% success was achieved with LAEDCR and EDCR respectively. Operating time, complication rates and the incidence of adjuvant procedures required were lesser in the LAEDCR group. Conclusion: In our study both the procedures have comparable success rates, though LAEDCR has an edge over EDCR in terms of decreased duration of surgery, decreased post operative morbidity and lesser complications.