Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) Surgery: Restoring Natural Tear Drainage

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a highly effective surgical procedure performed worldwide to relieve obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct. Patients suffering from blocked or collapsed tear ducts often experience excessive tearing, recurrent infections, swelling, and significant discomfort. These issues may arise from trauma, congenital abnormalities, inflammation, or environmental factors.
If left untreated, symptoms can worsen, leading to chronic tearing (“wet eye”), pain, and persistent infection.

A Landmark Innovation in Tear Duct Reconstruction

In 1961, ophthalmologist Lester T. Jones and otolaryngologist Gunther Weiss introduced a breakthrough solution for severe tear duct obstruction. They developed a specialized glass implant—now known as the Lester T. Jones Tear Duct Tube—designed to create a permanent channel for tear drainage.

During surgery, the tube is placed into the newly created passage between the eye and the nasal cavity. Over time, the body forms a natural layer of scar tissue around the tube, securing it in place and establishing a stable, long‑term tear drainage pathway.

This innovation revolutionized the management of complex lacrimal drainage disorders and remains a trusted technique in modern oculoplastic surgery.