Long-Term Outcomes of Revisional Powered Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (EnDCR) with Intraoperative Application of Mitomycin C in Patients After Failed Laser-Assisted (LDCR) or External Dacryocystorhinostomy (ExDCR)

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of revisional powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EnDCR) with the intraoperative application of Mitomycin C in patients after failed transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy (LDCR) or external dacryocystorhinostomy (ExDCR). Methods: This prospective, non-randomized, comparative, single-center clinical study was conducted between 2020 and 2023. The study included all patients presenting with epiphora graded ≥3 on the Munk scale (0–4) and confirmed ostium occlusion or significant narrowing on endoscopic examination following primary LDCR or ExDCR. All the participants underwent pre- and postoperative assessment using the Munk scale and fluorescein dye disappearance test (FDDT). The primary endpoints were ostium patency on irrigation and change in epiphora grade at 24-month follow-up. Secondary endpoints included changes in the FDDT results, endoscopic assessment of ostium patency, and ostium size. Outcomes were compared between the LDCR and ExDCR groups. Results: A total of 24 patients (mean age: 62 ± 19 years; range: 27–93 years) were included, with 12 cases after failed LDCR and 12 cases after failed ExDCR. The follow-up period ranged from 24 to 58 months. Significant improvement in epiphora was observed at the 24-month follow-up, both in the Munk scale (p < 0.001) and FDDT (p < 0.001). The overall anatomical and functional success rate was 95.8% (23/24). The mean time to recurrence was 63 weeks after ExDCR and 38 weeks after LDCR. Although there was a trend toward a longer symptom-free interval following ExDCR, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.231). Conclusions: Powered endoscopic DCR with intraoperative Mitomycin C application is an effective reoperative approach for managing recurrent lacrimal drainage obstruction following failed laser or external dacryocystorhinostomy.