What instruments are used for tear duct irrigation?

Tear duct irrigation is a procedure specifically designed to flush the tear drainage system, which may be blocked or obstructed. The essential instruments for this process include a punctal dilator, syringe, and lacrimal cannula.

The punctal dilator is used to gently open the punctum, the small opening of the tear duct, allowing better access for irrigation. The syringe is typically filled with sterile saline or another irrigating solution, providing the necessary pressure to introduce the fluid. The lacrimal cannula is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the lacrimal sac to facilitate the passage of the irrigating solution and to help navigate through the tear duct system.

Together, these instruments enable a thorough irrigation of the tear ducts, helping to clear any obstructions and restore normal drainage. This combination is specifically chosen as they are designed to safely and effectively perform the irrigation without causing trauma to the delicate structures of the eye and surrounding areas. The other options listed include instruments that are either not suitable for this particular procedure or are intended for different types of surgical interventions.