Removal of Crawford Tubes

Crawford tubes are inserted into the nasolacrimal (tear) duct  to assist the drainage of tears. They usually remain in place for about six months. Your doctor will organise for your child to return to hospital to have the tubes removed under anaesthetic.

Length of hospital stay

An overnight stay in hospital is not normally needed.

Preparation for surgery

Your child's anaesthetist will meet with you and your child before the operation to outline the type of anaesthesia to be used, and will welcome any questions you have. A premedication may be ordered at this time. This usually takes the form of a medicine to be swallowed that will provide pain relief, sedation or both. If it is planned to start the anaesthesia by injection, local anaesthetic cream can be put on at this time to numb the area of skin where the intravenous needle/drip is to be put in.

Length of procedure

Your child will be away from the ward for 30 - 40 minutes.

After surgery

When your child returns, he/she may have slight nasal bleeding and redness of the eyes. The eye doctor will usually review your child before discharge. Your child will need to stay in the Day Surgery Ward for approximately 2 hours after surgery but may need to stay a little longer.

Pain relief

Paracetamol (Panadol) may be given 4-6 hourly for 24 hours if required. If your child's pain relief is not adequate, please contact your family doctor.

Drips

Your child may return from theatre with an Intravenous Cannula (IV drip) in their hand. The nurse will remove the drip before you go home (approximately 1 ½ hours after the operation) .

Diet and fluids

There is no need for a special diet following this procedure, but it is recommended your child not eat greasy foods as these may cause vomiting. Do not be concerned if your child vomits once or twice after leaving hospital but if they are unable to keep fluids down and continue to vomit, please contact your family doctor.

Follow up appointments

There is usually no follow up appointment, but if you are concerned or if your child is having problems, please contact your family doctor.

Return to school and sport

Your child should be able to return to school and sport the day after surgery.

If you have any concerns after discharge please telephone the Paediatric Day Unit (08) 8161 7448, Monday - Friday, 7.30am - 6.30pm, or see your Family Doctor.    

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