Comprehensive Review of the Literature on Existing Punctal Plugs for the Management of Dry Eye Disease
Table 4
Horizontal canalicular plugs [18–25] (types of vertical canalicular plugs, manufacturers, and characteristics discussed in detail).
Name
Size
Material
Temporary/ permanent
Characteristics
Manufacturer
Herrick plug
3 sizes (0.3, 0.5, and 0.7 mm)
Medical grade silicone
Permanent
Shape of a golf tee and radiopaque. More comfortable initially but, because of the stagnant column of tear fluid between the plug and punctal opening, are theoretically more prone to infection. It has a collapsible bell design, which makes insertion easier.
Lacrimedics
VisiPlug
2 sizes (0.4–0.5 mm)
Polydioxanone (PDS)
Temporary—extended duration
Does not swell upon coming in contact with moisture (Figure 7(c)). Lasts up to 6 months.
Lacrimedics
Xsorb Plug
3 sizes (0.3–0.5 mm)
Glycolic acid and trimethylene carbonate
Temporary—extended duration
Dyed with D&C Green number 6. Lasts for about 3 months.
