23-gauge vitrectomy with intraocular foreign body removal via the limbus

Objective To study the outcome of removal of intraocular foreign bodies (IFB) via limbus using 23-gauge (23G) vitrectomy. Methods A retrospective non-comparative interventional case series of 22 cases (22 eyes) fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled. They underwent 23G vitrectomy for management of posterior segment IFB and followed up 6~12 months (8.31±1.70 months). Eyes with penetrating eye injury involving cornea or sclera, cataract associated with anterior and/or posterior capsule tear requiring cataract surgery and IFB diagnosed by CT scan were included. Main outcome measures included success in removal of IFB without enlarging sclerotomy, ability to preserve capsular which helping secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, improvement in visual acuity and complications. Results All eyes underwent the successful removal IFB through limbus (100%). Second intraocular lens was implant in 19 eyes (86.36%). The visual acuity showed significant improvement except 4 eyes (81.82%). There were no sclerotomy-related complications. Conclusions 23G vitrectomy for removal of IFB via the limbus is an alternative approach for select cases. This method obviates the need for scleral port enlargement and reduces sclerotomy-related complications, and preserve capsular support for early visual rehabilitation by secondary IOL implantation. Key words: Intraocular foreign body; Vitrectomy; Clinical effects