In Vivo and Cadaver Studies of the CanalicularLacrimal Sac Mucosal Folds

Abstract EN

Purpose.

The study aimed to investigate canalicular/lacrimal sac mucosal folds (CLS-MFs) in vivo and in cadavers in order to explore their functional roles in the lacrimal drainage system.

Method.

The observations of CLS-MFs in vivo were performed on 16 patients with chronic dacryocystitis after undergoing an endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EE-DCR).

The lacrimal sacs and common canaliculi of 19 adult cadavers were dissected.

The opening/closing of an orifice and mucosal fold was recorded.

All of the specimens were subjected to a histological examination.

Results.

The upper and lower lacrimal canaliculi in all of the samples united to form a common canaliculus that opened to the lacrimal sac.

CLS-MFs were observed in 10 of the 16 patients (62.5%) and 9 of the 19 cadavers (47.4%).

The orifices or mucosal folds could be opened or closed when related muscles contracted or relaxed.

Histological sections showed a mucosal fold at one side of an orifice.

Conclusion.

Common canaliculus is the most common type that the canaliculus opens to lacrimal sac.

CLS-MFs exist in a certain ratio that can be opened/closed with the movement of the orifices.

They may be involved in the drainage of tears or the pathogenesis of acute dacryocystitis or lacrimal sac mucocele.