Mechanical occlusion of lacrimal drainage system

Mechanical occlusion of the lacrimal drainage system is a therapeutic intervention designed to manage aqueous-deficient dry eye disease by physically blocking the tear exit pathways (StatPearls, 2023). This procedure typically involves the insertion of punctal plugs—small devices made of collagen or silicone—into the lacrimal puncta or canaliculi to inhibit the drainage of tears into the nasolacrimal duct (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2022). By increasing the volume and retention time of the tear film on the ocular surface, mechanical occlusion helps alleviate symptoms of dryness, irritation, and corneal damage. It is not a molecular target such as a receptor or enzyme, but rather a mechanical method to alter ocular fluid dynamics. While generally safe, the procedure can lead to complications such as epiphora (overflow of tears), localized infection (canaliculitis), or device-related irritation (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Other names

Punctal occlusionLacrimal punctal pluggingCanalicular occlusionPunctal blockageNasolacrimal duct occlusion

Mechanical obstruction of the lacrimal puncta or canaliculi to inhibit the drainage of natural and artificial tears, thereby increasing tear volume and residence time on the ocular surface.