Extraction of intraocular foreign bodies by pars plana vitrectomy

Objective: To assess visual acuity and surgical outcomes as well as complications after extraction of intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Methods: 20 eyes of IOFBs (magnetic IOFBs in 15 eyes, nonmagnetic IOFBs in 5 eyes) were performed with PPV and IOFBs extraction. Three eyes with retinal detachment were operated with pneumatic retinopexy. Simultaneous cataract extraction with phacoemulisification and posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) implantation in 8 eyes was performed. Results: The IOFBs were extracted successfully in all eyes. Post-operative visual acuity was improved in 16 eyes (80%),not changed in 3 eyes (15%) and decreased in only one eye (5%).The best refracted visual acuity is 0 8～0 7. Conclusion: Extraction of IOFBs by PPV is a safe and effective operation. Combined cataract extraction with PC-IOL implantation and vitreoretinal surgery may reduce the need two separate operations in selected patients with penetrating ocular injury and IOFBs. The main advantage is more rapid visual rehabilitation with a single operation, reducing costs and patient's discomfort.