Techniques of Intraocular Foreign Body Removal

Open-globe injuries with a retained intraocular foreign body (IOFB) may cause severe vision loss. Using current commercially available pars plana vitrectomy and microsurgical techniques can maximize favorable outcomes. The combination of a standard 3-port 20-gauge pars plana vitrectomy with a noncontact wide-field viewing system, xenon illumination, and IOFB forceps allows the surgeon to efficiently and safely remove an IOFB, thus reducing the rate of complications. Furthermore, the addition of newer generation broad-spectrum systemic antibiotics has lead to reduced rates of posttraumatic endophthalmitis. The purpose of this article is to describe the latest technology and medications available for the management of a retained IOFB.