Investigating the role of metal fatigue in a case of ritleng probe fracture: its causes and prevention.

Complications with the Ritleng probe have not been reported previously. Herein, we report a case in which the Ritleng probe tip fractured during use on a patient undergoing nasolacrimal duct intubation requiring subsequent retrieval. A root-cause analysis was conducted which help to elicit possible ways to prevent such a complication in the future. Most notably the use of the stylet, documented as a cleaning device, seems to offer additional support to prevent metal fatigue and tip fracture.