Minimally invasive surgery for the removal of posterior intraocular foreign bodies

Abstract

This is a prospective clinical assay that included six patients who were diagnosed with penetrating corneal injury, traumatic cataract, and posterior segment intraocular foreign body (IOFB). Following anterior segment repair and extraction of traumatic cataract by clear cornea phacoemulsification, a standard 25-gauge transconjunctival pars plana vitrectomy was performed to find and release the IOFB. With active suction using a 25-gauge silicone tipped cannula, the foreign body was retrieved and safely placed in the anterior chamber. After stabilization of the anterior chamber with viscoelastic injection, IOFB extraction through the main phaco incision was easily performed, followed by placement of an intraocular lens. Of the six patients, 66.6% showed a significant improvement of visual acuity. No complications associated directly with the surgical procedure occurred. Our surgical technique is a safe alternative for handling and removing a posterior IOFB. There was no need for a scleral incision.

Keywords

• Cataract; Corneal Trauma; Intraocular Foreign Bodies; Eye Injury; Vitrectomy