Non-surgical management of lacrimal canaliculitis following insertion of SmartPlug

  • Emmy Y. Li Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China and Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, China
  • Andy C Cheng Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China and Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, China
  • Hunter K Yuen Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China and Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, China
Keywords: Canaliculitis, punctal plug

Abstract

Punctal plugs are popular device used for treatment of dry eyes. The SmartPlug, with its special thermodynamic properties, has the advantage to conform to the shape of the punctal ampulla and proximal canaliculus, and offers effective occlusion. However, SmartPlug related complications are not uncommon and surgical interventions are often required for management of persistent infection. This is a report of two middle-aged Asian women who developed chronic lacrimal canaliculitis after insertion of the SmartPlug Punctal Plug. Attempts at removing the SmartPlug failed and prolonged topical antibiotics resulted only in partial resolution of the infection. Subsequent forced irrigation with penicillin solution via the affected puncta using large bore lacrimal canula successfully led to complete resolution of the canalculitis.

Published
2014-04-01
How to Cite
Li, E., Cheng, A., & Yuen, H. (2014). Non-surgical management of lacrimal canaliculitis following insertion of SmartPlug. Asian Journal of Ophthalmology, 13(3), 111-114. https://doi.org/10.35119/asjoo.v13i3.134
Section
Case Reports/Case Series