Use of mini-monoka stents for punctal/canalicular stenosis

Background Proximal lacrimal system stenosis may cause debilitating epiphora and recurrent ocular infections. Mini-monoka stents are primarily used in the management of canalicular lacerations. Evidence regarding their use to treat punctal/canalicular stenosis is sparse. Compared with dacryocystorhinostomy, a punctocanaliculoplasty with mini-monoka stenting is quicker, less invasive with reduced postoperative complications/recovery time. Aims To assess the effectiveness of mini-monoka punctocanaliculoplasty for treatment of punctal/canalicular stenosis. Methods A retrospective case note analysis was performed on 77 consecutive patients (123 eyes). Results 73% of eyes had punctal stenosis, 72% had canalicular stenosis; 46% had a combination of the above. 20% had some degree of lid laxity and 29% had nasolacrimal duct stenosis. 101 eyes (82%) had significant improvement in symptoms and were discharged without further intervention. Excluding the patients with structural comorbidity the success rate improved to 88%. Conclusions Mini-monoka punctocanaliculoplasty is an effective, safe, simple and relatively non-invasive treatment strategy for the management of epiphora secondary to punctal and/or canalicular stenosis.