To compare the success rate and complications of two different monocanalicular silicone tube (Monoka and Masterka) in incomplete lacrimal drainage obstruction in adults.

In this non-randomized comparative case series, 98 orbits from 89 patients with incomplete lacrimal drainage obstruction underwent probing and either Monoka (n=51, group 1) or Masterka (n=47, group 2) intubation. Incomplete obstruction was diagnosed by a canalicular irrigation revealing simultaneous reflux through the opposing punctum and drainage into the nose. Complete success was defined as Munk score of 0 or 1, partial success was defined as Munk score of 2, and failure was defined as Munk score of 3 or 4 six month after silicone tube removal.

Mean ± standard deviation age of patients was 54.5±12.4 years and 59.2% of them were female. Complete success was reported in 27 patients (52.9%) of group 1 and in 20 patients (42.6%) of group 2. Partial success was reported in 9 patients (17.6%) of group 1 and in 6 patients (12.8%) of group 2. No improvement was reported in 15 patients (29.4%) of group 1 and in 21 patients (44.7%) of group 2. Difference between two groups was not statistically significant. (P=0.29). Sex, age and duration of intubation did not have significant impact on the success rate in all subjects. However, intubation was more successful in common canalicular stenosis than nasolacrimal duct stenosis. (Complete or partial success: 83.3% vs. 66.7%, respectively. P=0.02) Early tube loss occurred in one eye with Monoka and in two eyes with Masterka. Complications included 2 slit puncta with Masterka and 11 temporary superficial punctuate keratopathy (7 eyes in Masterka and 4 eyes with Monoka).

Both type of monocanalicular silicone tube had virtually the same success rate. Monocanalicular intubation may be more helpful in common canalicular stenosis.