Name of the Procedure:

Removal of foreign body, intraocular; from posterior segment, magnetic extraction, anterior or posterior route (Intraocular Foreign Body Removal via Magnetic Extraction)

Summary

This procedure involves the removal of a foreign object that has entered the eye, specifically the posterior segment, using a magnetic device. The foreign body is extracted through either the front (anterior) or back (posterior) of the eye.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: To address the presence of a foreign body lodged in the posterior segment of the eye.
• Goals: To safely remove the foreign object, prevent further damage to ocular structures, reduce the risk of infection, and preserve vision.

Indications

• Symptoms such as severe eye pain, vision loss, bleeding inside the eye, or visible foreign body in the eye.
• Conditions warranting the procedure include intraocular foreign bodies detected through imaging or clinical examination.

Preparation

• Patients may be required to fast for a specified period before the procedure.
• Preoperative tests such as an eye exam, imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scan), and blood tests may be conducted.
• Adjustments to current medications, such as blood thinners, as advised by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered based on the patient's condition and procedure specifics.
2. Access: The surgeon gains access to the eye's posterior segment either through the front (anterior route) or back (posterior route).
3. Removal: A specialized magnetic instrument is used to attract and extract the foreign body.
4. Closure: The incision site is then carefully closed, and any necessary additional treatments are performed.
5. Postoperative Care: The eye may be patched, and medications may be prescribed to prevent infection and manage pain.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

Performed in a hospital operating room or specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, inflammation, scarring.
• Rare complications: Retinal detachment, recurrence of the foreign body, vision loss.
• Management involves administering antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and close follow-up.

Benefits

• Successful removal of the foreign body.
• Prevention of further ocular damage and preservation of vision.
• Relief from symptoms like pain and vision impairment.
• Expected benefits typically realized within a few days post-procedure.

Recovery

• Patients may need to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
• Instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities and protecting the eye from trauma.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled for monitoring recovery.
• Full recovery may take a few weeks, depending on the extent of the injury and the procedure performed.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical options (if the foreign body is superficial and safe to monitor).
• Other surgical techniques like vitrectomy might be considered based on the location and type of the foreign body.
• Each alternative has its own risk and benefit profile to be weighed by the patient and healthcare team.

Patient Experience

• Sensation of pressure or slight discomfort during the procedure, especially with local anesthesia.
• Pain and mild discomfort post-procedure, manageable with prescribed pain relief measures.
• Visual disturbances may temporarily persist, but vision improvement expected as recovery progresses.