Management of ocular foreign bodies.

Fluorescein staining is helpful in diagnosis. Many conjunctival foreign bodies can be removed by swab or irrigation, without anesthesia. Cycloplegics can prevent painful ciliary spasm. A surgical opening may be required for deeply embedded objects. Topical anesthesia is required for corneal foreign body removal. Caution: x-rays must be made to rule out intraocular foreign bodies in cases of flying metal. Rust rings must be removed. Mydriatics or cycloplegics can precipitate glaucoma. Corneal abrasions are easily infected. Secondary iritis may follow deeply embedded foreign bodies.