Corneal Foreign Body

Corneal foreign bodies can be superficial, deep or penetrating. Initial treatment might include corneal irrigation and lubrication, topical and systemic antimicrobials, systemic anti-inflammatories and systemic analgesia. An Elizabethan collar should be placed to prevent self-trauma. Superficial, non-embedded foreign bodies can sometimes be irrigated from the corneal surface with saline eye-wash. Deeper, embedded or penetrating foreign bodies should not be removed unless the patient is anesthetized and prepared for corneal grafting or wound repair. Referral for surgical foreign body removal and corneal stabilization is generally recommended.