How long after dacryocystorhinostomy tube insertion should the tube be removed?

Nov 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

If the patient has mild symptoms of dacryocystitis, good patency of the lacrimal passage after tube placement, no obvious recurrence of inflammation or increased secretions, and lacrimal irrigation during follow-up shows no resistance or reflux, the tube can generally be removed 3–6 months after surgery. By this time, the lacrimal mucosa has largely healed and the passage is relatively stable. After tube removal, lacrimal function usually remains normal, with a low risk of re-obstruction.

Under normal circumstances, the intubation for dacryocystitis is usually removed 3 to 6 months after surgery. For some patients with more complex conditions or slower recovery, the removal time may be extended to 6–12 months. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If a patient has mild symptoms of dacryocystitis and good patency of the lacrimal passage after intubation, without obvious recurrence of inflammation or increased discharge, and lacrimal irrigation during follow-up shows no resistance or reflux, the tube can generally be removed 3–6 months postoperatively. By this time, the lacrimal mucosa has largely healed and the passage is relatively stable. After removal, normal lacrimal function is usually maintained, with low risk of re-obstruction.

For patients with severe conditions—such as significant lacrimal passage narrowing, recurrent chronic inflammation, local infection after intubation, or slow mucosal healing—the intubation may need to remain in place longer, possibly for 6–12 months. The tube should only be removed by a physician after complete control of inflammation, stable patency of the lacrimal passage, and confirmation through multiple follow-ups that lacrimal function has recovered well, to avoid premature removal leading to treatment failure.

During the intubation period, maintain good eye hygiene, avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent tube displacement or infection, and attend regular follow-up appointments as instructed to monitor lacrimal patency. Promptly address any abnormalities such as increased discharge, redness, or swelling of the eye.

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