Intraosseous approach to the nasolacrimal duct for removal of a foreign body in a dog

A Labrador retriever was evaluated because of chronic mucopurulent discharge from the left eye. A foreign body was identified in the nasolacrimal duct by use of dacryocystorhinography. Attempts to alleviate the inflammation by use of flushing and administration of antimicrobials were unsuccessful. At surgery, the infraorbital foramen was used as a landmark for a skin incision, because the nasolacrimal duct courses dorsal and parallel to the infraorbital canal. An air drill was used to remove the portion of the maxillary bone overlying the nasolacrimal duct, which exposed the intraosseous portion of the duct and allowed removal of a plant-material foreign body. The incision in the duct was allowed to heal by second intention, and the dog recovered without complications.