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Abstract ID: 24-154
Diagrammatic Presentation of the Lacrimal System Evaluation, an Interpretive Approach
HAMZEH MOHAMMAD ALRAWASHDEH
Purpose
We aimed to establish a way of diagrammatically presenting the findings of lacrimal system evaluation in simple, easily interpretable, colorful, and easy-to-recall symbols, including the lacrimal gland, tear meniscus, punctum, canaliculus, lacrimal sac, nasolacrimal duct, nasal anatomical structures (normal and disease states), and findings during postoperative procedures. This aims to facilitate its assessment in an artistic approach to be a common language among lacrimal surgeons globally that will guide appropriate management and evaluate treatment outcomes.
Methods
Lacrimal procedures are an essential part of the oculoplastic practice. The applicability of our diagrammatic presentation was tested on 100 patients by three ophthalmology residents, three oculoplastics fellows, and two consultants over four months. The findings were documented and presented in detail, including abnormal and normal anatomy with its variation, static and dynamic function, the patency from proximal to distal, abnormal conditions and diseases, and the postoperative outcomes. Patients’ diagrammatic presentations were then distributed among the participants and other colleagues after discussing the symbols’ meanings with them, asking them to interpret the findings for each case.
Results
The symbols used in this diagrammatic presentation were acceptable among the participants, interpretable, and easy to memorize. A shorter time was needed to document and recall the findings in detail, mainly in busy clinics. Our symbols presented the most common findings during the lacrimal drainage system evaluation and were combined easily in some cases to present more complicated findings.
Conclusion
Presenting the examination, syringing, probing, and nasal endoscopy findings in evaluating the lacrimal system in common international symbols is crucial for proper management and follow-ups, evaluation by colleagues, and avoiding repetition of the invasive assessment. It acts like a simple language to describe lacrimal evaluation.
Additional Authors
Blanche Lim Xiaohong – Dacryology Service, Orbit & Oculofacial Surgery, Dept of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore
Gangadhara Sundar – Dacryology Service, Orbit & Oculofacial Surgery, Dept of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, Singapore