Nasolacrimal duct opening in Inferior Nasal Meatus

Dr. S.B. Mane; Mr. S.V. Kakde; Dr. M.P. Ambali; Dr. Mrs. M.A. Doshi; Dr. R.J. Patil

Volume : VI, Issue : X, October - 2016

Nasolacrimal duct opening in Inferior Nasal Meatus

Dr. S. B. Mane, Mr. S. V. Kakde, Dr. M. P. Ambali, Dr. Mrs. M. A. Doshi, Dr. R. J. Patil

Abstract :

Introduction: Nasolacrimal duct starts from lacrimal sac and opens into the inferior meatus of the nasal cavity.It’s opening in inferior meatus is hidden by inferior nasal concha. So to find out, where exactly is the opening, this study was undertaken. Methods : Study was carried out on the cadaveric specimens in Krishna institute of medical sciences,Karad. Total 45(forty five) specimens were studied. Out of that, 24(twenty four) were from Left side, and 21(twenty one) were from Right side. Measurements were taken by using Sliding Vernier Caliper of 30 cm length and having 0.01mm accuracy. Distance of nasolacrimal duct opening from Anterior and Posterior ends of hard palate was measured. Site and Shape of opening was noted. Diameter of opening was measured. Results:. Average distance of Nasolacrimal duct opening from Anterior end of Hard palate on Right side was 2.33 cms & on Left side was 2.23 cms. Average distance of Nasolacrimal duct opening from Posterior end of Hard palate on Right side was 2.65 cms & on Left side was 2.93 cms. Average diameter of Nasolacrimal duct opening on Right side was 0.57 cms & on Left side was 0.60 cms. Distance from Post. End of Hard Palate of nasolacrimal duct opening, as compared to right & left side, was statistically significant( p=0.0484) . Most common shape of Nasolacrimal duct opening was Oval(67%) Discussion:This study will basically help to Anatomists, to know where exactly is the opening of nasolacrimal duct in inferior nasal meatus. And secondarily it may be helpful to Oto–Rhinologists , when doing surgeries on Nasolacrimal duct.