Clogging of the lacrimal tract due to dry eyes

Tear duct occlusion for dry eye is an ophthalmic procedure in which special plugs (punctal occluders) are inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage and improve the stability of the tear film on the eye surface. This procedure is intended to relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome.

What are dry eye syndrome and tear duct occlusion?

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears are of poor quality, resulting in insufficient lubrication of the eye surface. This causes irritation, burning, a gritty sensation, redness, and discomfort.

Tear duct occlusion is a procedure in which small, biocompatible plugs (punctal occluders) are inserted into the tear puncta (small openings in the inner corners of the eyelids through which tears drain into the nasal cavity). These plugs block tear drainage, allowing tears to remain longer on the eye surface, thus improving lubrication and relieving dry eye symptoms.

When is tear duct occlusion needed?

This procedure is typically recommended for individuals experiencing:

• Chronic dry eye syndrome: when symptoms are severe and do not improve with artificial tears or other treatments
• Eye irritation, burning, or gritty sensation: caused by dryness
• Contact lens intolerance: due to insufficient eye lubrication
• After eye surgeries: when dry eye symptoms worsen

Procedure in the clinic

Tear duct occlusion is performed in an ophthalmologist’s office:

• Anesthesia: the eye is numbed with local anesthetic drops
• Insertion of plugs: the doctor carefully inserts the plugs into the tear puncta using a special instrument; the plugs may be temporary (dissolvable) or permanent
• After the procedure: the patient is given recommendations for aftercare and possible side effects

The procedure is quick and generally painless.

Interpretation of results

Tear duct occlusion helps reduce dry eye symptoms, improves eye lubrication, and enhances overall comfort. The effectiveness of the procedure depends on the individual condition and the type of plugs used.