To study the surgical outcomes of external dacryocystorhinostomy (Trephine Vs Punch): a comparative retrospective study

This retrospective comparative study describes the surgical outcomes of primary external DCR by two instrument sets Kerrisons punch vs Lacrimal trephine. We reviewed the medical records of total forty eight patients who had undergone primary external DCR in the last one year period in our institution. Procedure success rate was among Kerrisons group 91.66% vs 83.33% in lacrimal Trephine group(p=0.157), that was marginally significant. But the operative time was slightly higher in Kerrison punch group. Chances of nasal mucosal damage was higher in lacrimal Trephine group. The follow-up period was upto six months after surgery.