Name of the Procedure:

Removal of foreign body, external eye; corneal, with slit lamp

Summary

This procedure involves the use of a specialized microscope called a slit lamp to remove a foreign object from the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. It is typically performed to alleviate discomfort and prevent potential damage to the eye.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of a foreign body on the cornea. Goals include relieving irritation, pain, and preventing infection or further damage to the eye tissue.

Indications

• Feeling of a foreign object in the eye
• Redness, tearing, or discomfort in the eye
• Visual disturbances or blurriness
• Individuals who have had an eye trauma that resulted in a foreign body lodged in the cornea

Preparation

• The patient may be instructed to avoid rubbing the eye.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• An initial eye examination to confirm the presence and exact location of the foreign body.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated at the slit lamp.
2. Anesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the eye and prevent discomfort.
3. Using magnification and focused light from the slit lamp, the healthcare provider carefully inspects the cornea.
4. Sterilized tools, such as fine forceps or a small needle, are used to gently remove the foreign body.
5. Antibiotic eye drops may be applied to prevent infection.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the nature of the foreign body.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist or optometrist
• Trained nurse or medical assistant may assist

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort during and after the procedure
• Infection
• Corneal abrasion
• Increased tearing or redness

Benefits

• Immediate relief from discomfort and irritation
• Prevention of further damage or infection
• Rapid improvement in visual clarity

Recovery

• The patient may be advised to use antibiotic eye drops for a few days.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the eye.
• Follow-up visit to ensure proper healing.
• Most patients recover fully within a few days with minimal restrictions.

Alternatives

• Natural expulsion with increased blinking and use of lubricating eye drops
• Flushing the eye with saline solution
• In more severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary

Patient Experience

• Mild pressure or a slight sensation of the foreign body during the procedure.
• Anesthetic drops make the procedure mainly painless.
• Slight soreness or redness following the procedure, which typically resolves quickly with prescribed eye drops.
• Effective pain management and eye care instructions provided to ensure comfort during recovery.