Change in quality of life of patients undergoing silicone stent intubation for nasolacrimal duct stenosis combined with dry eye syndrome

Aims To investigate the effect of silicone stent intubation (SI) on the quality of life of patients diagnosed with nasolacrimal duct stenosis and dry eye syndrome. Methods This study is a prospective, interventional case series. Consecutive 30 patients diagnosed with nasolacrimal duct stenosis and reflex tearing due to dry eye syndrome were included. Eligible subjects underwent SI and were asked to complete the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI) questionnaire. Surgical outcomes and GBI scores were investigated 6 months postoperatively. Results The surgical success rate determined by the patients' subjective symptoms was 76.7% (23/30). Mean total GBI score was +17.19 (95% CI 8.34 to 26.03). The general subscale score was +20.36 (95% CI 10.19 to 30.54), the social support scale score was +21.54 (95% CI 11.37 to 31.71) and the physical health score was -0.56 (95% CI -8.92 to 7.80). Conclusions SI could be an effective treatment option for reflex tearing in patients diagnosed with dry eye syndrome and nasolacrimal duct stenosis.