Foreign body in the eye

Penetrating foreign bodies

The damage caused by an intraocular foreign body depends on:

Metal foreign bodies that have iron in them can cause a condition called 'siderosis', which gradually leads to poor vision over the following months and years.

Some other metals and vegetable materials may cause rapid destruction of the eye or infection inside the eye.

It is possible for a small foreign body to enter the eye and cause no apparent damage, but it may lead to bleeding within the eye, early cataract formation or damage to the retina. Surgery may be required to correct this damage.

How is a penetrating foreign body removed?

An operation is needed to remove foreign bodies that have penetrated inside the eye. This usually takes the form of a vitrectomy, which involves going into the eye to remove the foreign material.

At the same time, any damage to the eye caused by the entry of the foreign material can be repaired. This may involve removal of haemorrhage, removal of the lens or repair of retinal damage.

Will there be any long-term effects?

Superficial foreign bodies are not sight-threatening injuries and the eye tends to make a full recovery.

Penetrating foreign bodies are potentially very serious and may lead to blindness or loss of the eye, even if treated appropriately.

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