Name of the Procedure:

Removal of foreign body, external eye; conjunctival superficial.

Summary

This procedure involves the removal of a foreign object that is located on the superficial layer of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. It is typically performed by an eye care specialist.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of a foreign body in the external part of the eye, specifically the conjunctiva. The goals are to alleviate discomfort, prevent infection, and avoid potential damage to the eye's surface.

Indications

• Feeling of something in the eye
• Redness and irritation
• Tearing or watery eyes
• Pain or discomfort when blinking
• Visible foreign object on the surface of the eye Patients with persistent symptoms or visible foreign material in the conjunctiva are suitable candidates for this procedure.

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Patients should avoid rubbing the eye.
• Refrain from using contact lenses.
• Inform the doctor of any existing medical conditions or ongoing medications.
• Diagnostic tests such as visual inspection or slit-lamp examination to identify the foreign body.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated and instructed to look in various directions to help locate the foreign body.
2. Anesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the eye.
3. Using a slit-lamp microscope for magnification, the doctor identifies the foreign body.
4. Specialized instruments like a cotton swab, fine forceps, or an irrigation solution are used to carefully remove the foreign body.
5. The eye is inspected again to ensure complete removal and to check for abrasions.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or eye care specialist's office.

Personnel

• An ophthalmologist or optometrist performs the procedure.
• A nurse or medical assistant may assist.

Risks and Complications

• Minor irritation or redness following the procedure.
• Rare risk of infection or eye trauma.
• Possibility of residual foreign bodies if not fully removed.
• Potential for developing conjunctivitis or corneal abrasions.

Benefits

• Immediate relief from discomfort and irritation.
• Prevention of further eye injury or infection.
• Rapid return to normal vision and eye function.

Recovery

• Use prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection.
• Avoid rubbing the eye.
• Wear an eye patch if advised, to protect the eye.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Resume normal activities usually within a day, though some may need to avoid strenuous activities for a brief period.

Alternatives

• Superficial irrigation or eye flushing at home for less severe cases.
• Observation if the foreign body is expected to dislodge naturally.
• Use of over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to soothe irritation.

Patient Experience

• Minimal discomfort during the procedure due to anesthetic drops.
• Slight discomfort or redness post-procedure, usually managed with eye drops.
• Temporary blurred vision immediately after the procedure. Pain management includes the use of anesthetic drops during the procedure and soothing eye drops afterward.