Blocked Tear Ducts: Infracturing
Topic Overview
Infracturing is a type of surgery that involves breaking and
repositioning one of the bones within the nose (inferior turbinate) to help
resolve a
blocked tear duct. This procedure may be done if the
nose structure is pressing against and blocking the lower end of the tear
duct.
The procedure is done in the hospital using
general anesthesia. The person stays in the hospital 1
to 3 hours after surgery so that she or he can be watched for complications. No
incision is made on the outside of the nose.
Risks from infracturing include:
- Bleeding from the nose and severe bruising of the
nose and face after surgery.
- Inhaling fluids (such as blood or
mucus) during surgery.
Credits
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By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology |
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Last Revised
|
November 8, 2011 |
Last Revised:
November 8, 2011