Canalicular Lacerations

Canalicular Lacerations

Contributors: Kenten Kingsbury; Spenser J. Morton, MD; and Audrey C. Ko, MD

Photography: Audrey C. Ko, MD

Category(ies): Oculoplastics

Posted: January 29, 2018

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Canalicular lacerations are commonly caused by trauma to the medial aspect of the upper or lower eyelids, which contain the superior and inferior lacrimal canaliculi. The lacrimal canaliculi are prone to damage from lacerations due to their lack of support from the tarsal plates of the eyelids. The accumulation of scar tissue due to unrepaired canaliculi or inflammation may cause the canalicular system to become obstructed, which may cause epiphora, or excessive watering of the eye. Treatment for canalicular lacerations is surgical repair via anastomosis and stenting of the lacerated canaliculus with a monocanalicular or bicanalicular stent [1].

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