Management of the lacrimal system during maxillectomy.

Background: Oncologic resection of the maxilla requires management of the nasolacrimal sac/duct system (NLS). A variety of techniques may be used: simple transection, transection with transcanalicular stenting, drilling of the entire nasolacrimal bony canal to the inferior meatus with mobilization of an intact NLS, marsupialization of the NLS with or without stenting, and simple transection with routine delayed dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) for symptomatic epiphora. Rates of prolonged epiphora range from 13 to 63%.