Orbital and Periorbital Extension of Congenital Dacryocystoceles: Suggested Mechanism and Management

Orbital and periorbital extension of congenital dacryocystoceles is rarely observed in neonatal infants. The authors describe 4 cases of congenital dacryocystocele that presented with extension to the orbital and periorbital regions. The first 3 newborns underwent marsupialization of the orbital and periorbital dacryocystoceles with aspiration of the purulent material followed by nasolacrimal duct probing after radiographic evidence of diffuse orbital or periorbital expansion. The fourth patient was successfully treated with an external dacryocystorhinostomy with excision of the enlarged cystic walls. Transconjunctival orbitotomy with sac marsupialization followed by nasolacrimal intubation can provide immediate and permanent resolutions of this unusual complication in most instances. External dacryocystorhinostomy may be required, however, when the orbital or periorbital dacryocystocele is complicated by acute or recurrent dacryocystitis.