Duration and Technical Efficiency in Dacryocystorhinostomy: Evaluating Operative Time Reduction without Compromising Success

Open Access

Abstract

Background: The most effective surgical procedure for nasolacrimal duct obstruction is still dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), although its effectiveness varies depending on the technical modifications. This study aimed to assess whether cutting out the formation and suturing of anterior flaps, shortens the operating time without compromising surgical success. Methods & Materials: This study was conducted at Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, from February to August 2017, with 60 patients enrolled with chronic dacryocystitis requiring DCR. Group A (n=30) underwent conventional DCR with anterior flap creation and suturing, while Group B (n=30) received modified DCR without flap, only muscle and skin suturing. Success was defined as symptomatic improvement with patent syringing at 6-month follow-up. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: The mean operating time of Group B (0.45±0.16 hours) was significantly 71% shorter than Group A (1.65±0.26 hours) (p=0.01). At six months, the groups' success rates were similar (Group A: 96.7% vs. Group B: 90.0%, p=0.306). Group B had a lower overall complication rate (3.3%) than Group A (23.3%), and neither group experienced any significant complications. Conclusion: With comparable success rates and lower complication rates, modified DCR withoutflap creation dramatically shortens operating times, indicating that this method improves surgical efficiency without sacrificing results.