Detection of orbital and intraocular foreign bodies by computerized tomography

Localization of intraocular and orbital foreign bodies with computerized tomography (CT) was evaluated in eight patients and an experimental model. CT examination was particularly helpful in cases with multiple similar foreign bodies and in identifying foreign bodies too radiolucent to be seen by standard skull x-rays. Limitations of CT technique included insufficient resolution to localize a foreign body immediately adjacent to the sclera as either intraocular or extraocular, and obscuration of a small foreign body by artifacts from an adjacent, larger foreign body.