The use of punctal plugs in dry eye syndrome patients is an effective way of treating them. But, what exactly is a punctal plug? We know that in dry patients, the amount of tears produced by the tear duct is either very low or the eyes are incapable of holding any more moisture in them.
A punctal or punctual plug, a medical device is inserted into the puncta(opening of the tear duct near the eye lids), which effectively blocks the duct in the eye. Upon blocking, the eye can effectively hold the moisture in the eye preventing drainage of the liquid.
Insertion of Punctal Plugs: Before actually inserting permanent punctal plugs, usually temporary plugs made out of collagen s(protein fibres) are tried. These collagen s are easily dissolved in the eye and help the eye get used to the plugs. These temporary plugs help in preventing excessive tearing when the permanent ones are inserted.
Usually made of silicon, the permanent plugs the punctum plugs can either be introduced into the puncta in a liquid or rigid form. Liquid plugs harden themselves upon insertion, while the rigid plugs go soft and flexible and adapt themselves o the respective size of the puncta.
Use of Punctal Plugs in Dry Eye Syndrome: Patients suffering from severe dry problem cannot be helped with artificial tear drops and ointments alone. Punctal plugs help in dealing with their problem in a much more effective manner.
- In severe dry patients, the tears produced by the tear gland leak and drain through the nose through the tear duct. Blocking this leakage would help keep the tears in the eye for a longer period of time.
- Not only do punctal plugs help the tears stay put in the eyes fro a longer time, but also they decrease the need of artificial tear drops. Considering the huge costs of preservative-free artificial drops, punctal plugs an prove to be economically beneficial.
Risks Associated With punctal Plugs: The risks associated with punctal plugs are reasonable. Eye irritation, excessive tearing and infection may be a few problems faced.
- Apart from the above, there is a chance for the punctal plugs to be lost(happens in 40 percent cases) in the first six months.
The use of punctal plugs in dry eye syndrome is a very good alternative to excessive use of artificial tear drops which is both time and money consuming.
