Tränenabflusswege

Tränenabflusswege, also known as the lacrimal drainage system, are the anatomical structures responsible for draining tears from the surface of the eye into the nasal cavity. This system is crucial for maintaining ocular health and preventing excessive tear accumulation.

The process begins with the lacrimal puncta, small openings located at the inner corner of both the upper and lower eyelids. Tears from the ocular surface are drawn into these puncta through capillary action and eyelid blinking. From the puncta, tears flow into the lacrimal canaliculi, which are tiny tubes that lead to a larger sac called the lacrimal sac.

The lacrimal sac is situated in a shallow groove on the medial side of the orbit, within the lacrimal bone. From the lacrimal sac, tears descend through the nasolacrimal duct. This duct empties into the nasal cavity, typically just below the inferior turbinate. The drainage of tears into the nose is why crying can often lead to a runny nose.

Disruptions or blockages in any part of the Tränenabflusswege can lead to various ophthalmic conditions. These include epiphora, which is excessive tearing, dacryocystitis, an infection of the lacrimal sac, and persistent eye infections. Causes for these blockages can range from congenital anomalies to inflammation, trauma, or aging. Treatment options depend on the location and cause of the obstruction and may include medication, irrigation, or surgical procedures to restore proper tear drainage.