Electrothermocoagulation for Occlusion of the Lacrimal Punctum: An Easy Outpatient Procedure
Jorge Schwember, Luisa Madrid, Constanza Orrego.
Abstract
Lacrimal disturbances such as excessive tearing or
ocular surface dryness are frequent reasons for ophthalmic consultation. For
the latter condition, this study presents a novel surgical technique for
lacrimal punctum occlusion. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting
using only a portable bipolar cautery. A retrospective analysis was conducted
of all patients undergoing this technique by a single surgeon from 2015 to
2025. A total of 32 patients underwent the procedure in a clinic-based
environment. The mean follow-up period was 5 months (range, 4 months to 2
years). All patients expressed satisfaction with the outcomes achieved. This
technique offers several advantages, including technical simplicity, minimal
instrumentation, potential reversibility, and a short procedure time.