Comparison of Outcomes of 3-Snip Punctoplasty Versus Simple Punctal Dilatation With Monocanalicular Intubation for Acquired Punctal Stenosis

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the outcomes of invasive (rectangular 3-snip punctoplasty) versus minimally invasive (punctal dilatation with monocanalicular intubation) treatment modalities for the management of acquired punctal stenosis. Methods: A retrospective, comparative, interventional case series was performed on 60 eyes of 36 patients with acquired punctal stenosis. Patients were categorized in 2 groups based on the intervention as 3-snip punctoplasty (group A) and punctal dilatation with monocanalicular intubation (group B). Qualitative and quantitative assessment for epiphora and punctal stenosis grading were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Patients with associated canalicular and nasolacrimal duct obstructions, congenital punctal disorders, eyelid malpositions, and less than 6 months' follow up were excluded. Anatomical and functional successes were recorded following stent extubation and at 6-month follow up. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square, Fisher exact, and the Mann–Whitney tests. A p value of