Aesthetic Appearance of External Dacryocystorhinostomy Scar: A Comparison between W and C Shaped Incision

Doi: 10.36351/pjo.v37i3.1088

Abstract

Purpose:  To compare the post-operative appearance of external Dacryocystorhinostomy scar resulting from W and C shaped incisions.

Study Design:  Interventional case series.

Place and Duration of Study:  Khalid eye clinic, Karachi, from July 2018 to June 2019.

Methods:  We recruited ninety-six patients of nasolacrimal duct obstruction by convenience sampling technique. Age ranged from 20 to 50 years and both genders were included. Two groups were made. Group A comprised of patients who underwent external Dacryocystorhinostomy (Ex-DCR) surgery through W shaped incision and group B patients underwent Ex-DCR with curvilinear C shaped incision. Main outcome measure was to observe minimal to no visible scarring at wound site after six months of follow up. All patients were explained about the difference in incision technique and consent was obtained from each patient.

Results:  Mean age was 34.3 ± 6.897 years. There were thirty-six (37.5%) males and sixty (62.5%) females. Right side was affected in forty-six (47.9%) cases whereas left side was involved in fifty (52.1%) cases. In Group A, 20 (41.6%) out of 48 patients, whereas in Group B, 38 (79.2%) out of 48 patients had no visible scar at all and it was statistically significant with a p-value of < 0.05. Suture abscess developed in four (8.3%) patients in group A, no other serious complications were observed in either group.

Conclusion:  Curvilinear C shaped incision in Ex-DCR has better cosmetic outcome.

Key Words:  External dacryocystorhinostomy, C shaped incision, W shaped incision.