Ziegler Lacrimal Dilator

Description

Ziegler Lacrimal Dilator

The Ziegler lacrimal dilator is a 10cm hand tool with a fine, tapered tip. Clinicians use it to widen the punctum, the tiny entry point of the tear drainage canal on the lid margin. It often comes first, before a probe or an irrigation cannula.

What the taper does

The tip starts very fine and widens toward the shaft. So as you advance it, it stretches the punctum a little at a time. This gentle stretch makes room for the next instrument. It also lowers the chance of a tear at the rim.

A simple way to use it

First, evert the lid slightly so the punctum faces you. Then enter vertically for a short distance. Next, turn the dilator toward the nose and roll it gently as you advance. Stop once the opening admits your probe.

When the Ziegler dilator helps

• Before Bowman probing
• Before lacrimal irrigation
• When the punctum looks narrow
• In clinic and in the operating room

The 10cm length

At 10cm, the dilator sits like a short pencil in the hand. It gives fine control without feeling bulky. In addition, a short tool is easy to steady against the cheek.

Ziegler taper upkeep

Wash the Ziegler taper soon after use. Then check the point for bends, since a bent tip can scrape the canal. A smooth, true tip is what makes dilation gentle. Store it in a slot so the fine end stays safe from other tools.

Ziegler dilators ship non-sterile; after you clean and sterilize one, it returns to service. The Ziegler taper uses stainless per ASTM F899. This Ziegler tip also has Ziegler cover for three years against manufacturing defects; Ziegler points that fail get replaced. See more in our eye surgery store, look at the Bowman probes, or read our FAQ notes.

The Ziegler dilator is for professional use only. Find Ziegler care and sterilization info and shipping and delivery info on our site.