Use of 3-dimensional printing in surgical exploration of a nasolacrimal duct obstruction in a dog.

Abstract

A 1.5-year-old spayed female English setter dog was presented because of mucopurulent discharge emanating from the left medial canthal region of 8-months duration despite medical management and repeated nasolacrimal flushing. Dacryocystorhinography demonstrated obstruction at the level of the lacrimal sac. Three-dimensional (3-D) modelling software was used to print a 3-D construct of the facial bones and a drill guide over the region of obstruction. The 3-D prints were sterilized and utilized during surgery to facilitate access to the lacrimal sac. The left lacrimal sac was identified, explored, and flushed. Patency was re-established, and the dog was asymptomatic 7 months after surgery.