OBJECTIVE: the main objective of this work is to review the articles that refer to transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy (TCL-DCR) in acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO), as well as its modifications.
METHODS: A systematic review of publications related to TCL-DCR of the lacrimal duct from 2000 to March 2021 was carried out in the MEDLINE, EMBASE and COCHRANE LIBRARY databases. The search terms in Spanish and English were: «Endocanalicular laser», dacryocystorhinostomy or «primary DCR-L» or «laser» and «tear ducts».
RESULTS: After subjecting the articles to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we got 49 articles: 21 retrospective and 28 prospective studies. The bibliometric result obtained guaranteed, for this review, a level C recommendation according to the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network scale.
CONCLUSIONS: Currently, the classic TCL-DCR has lower success rates than its modifications, so we suggest using the latter. We prefer TCL-DCR with IS-MMC or TCDL associated with endoscopy techniques, without being able to opt for any option, since their success rates are very similar. We leave the choice to the discretion of the surgeon, depending on the management skills of endonasal techniques. More studies, with longer follow-up, and better defined criteria are necessary to clarify which is the best TCL-DCR technique.