Bowman probe-guided lacrimal canalicular repair using a 24-G intravenous cannula: a retrospective case series
Öz
Abstract
Purpose: The primary goal in traumatic lacrimal canalicular lacerations is to restore canalicular continuity and prevent permanent epiphora. This study evaluated anatomical and functional outcomes and postoperative complications of Bowman probe-guided repair using a 24-gauge intravenous cannula in urgent cases where commercial canalicular stents were unavailable.
Materials and methods: This retrospective single-center case series included patients undergoing primary canalicular repair with this technique between January 2022 and December 2025. Patients with incomplete records or follow-up shorter than 3 months were excluded. Demographics, injury characteristics, surgical details, cannula retention, follow-up, success rates, and complications were recorded. Anatomical success was defined as lacrimal patency on irrigation at final follow-up; functional success as absence of epiphora (Munk score 0).
Results: Twenty-one patients (15 male; mean age 36±16 years) were included. The lower canaliculus was most frequently involved. Fifteen patients underwent repair within 24 hours; 19 underwent concurrent eyelid repair. Mean cannula retention and follow-up were 3.8±1.0 and 9.5±2.7 months, respectively. Anatomical and functional success were achieved in 18 (85.7%) and 17 (81.0%) patients, respectively. Complications included corneal abrasion in 3 (14.3%), early cannula loss in 2 (9.5%), and canalicular stenosis in 1 (4.8%). No punctal granuloma or wound infection occurred.
Conclusion: Bowman probe-guided canalicular repair using a 24-gauge intravenous cannula achieved favorable early-to-intermediate anatomical and functional outcomes with manageable complications in this limited series. In urgent cases without commercial stents, it may be considered a readily available alternative. These findings should be supported by prospective studies with larger sample sizes.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Canalicular laceration, lacrimal canaliculus, intravenous cannula, Bowman probe, epiphora
Destekleyen Kurum
No financial support was received from any institution or organization for this study.
Proje Numarası
Not applicable.
Etik Beyan
This study was approved by the Pamukkale University Non-Interventional Clinical Research Ethics Committee (date: 13 January 2026; decision/file no: E-60116787-020-814355). The study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.
Teşekkür
The authors would like to thank all clinical staff involved in the perioperative care and follow-up of the patients included in this study.
Kaynakça
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