Intraretinal foreign bodies. Management and observations.

Foreign bodies embedded in the retina and choroid such that they cannot be extracted by a magnet and require vitreous surgical techniques for removal comprise a distinct sub-type of retained intraocular foreign body (IOFB). A retrospective evaluation of 16 such intraretinal foreign bodies (IRFBs), suggests that these injuries are frequently accompanied by extensive ocular damage, including corneal perforation, disruption of the lens, significant vitreous hemorrhage, retinal and choroidal hemorrhage and retinal detachment, all of which require immediate surgical attention. Delayed cataract and retinal detachment are often observed in these cases. More than 60% of this series developed macular pucker after IRFB removal. Visual outcomes were discouraging, with seven patients (44%) retaining only 20/200 or worse visual acuity. This review suggests that the structural and visual outcomes of such eyes are uncertain, are the products of complex processes involving numerous technical elements other than sophisticated surgery and prompt removal of the foreign body.