Using temporary total punctual obstruction and quantitative dacryoscintigraphy, tear flow in the upper canaliculirelative to that in the lower candliculi was analyzed in 10 asymptomatic volunteers. The results with the only upper punctum occluded were compared to those with only the lower punctum occluded. No significant difference in tear flow between the upper and lower canalicular systems was appreciated (p<0.05). The clinical implication of these results are important when deciding whether to repair an isolated canalicular injury.(Tzu Chi Med J1998;10:45-50)