Epidemiology, Clinical Features, and Visual Outcomes After Intraocular Foreign Body Removal: An IRIS® Registry...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health

Background:

• Intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) pose a significant risk to vision.
• Understanding the epidemiology and outcomes of IOFB removal is crucial for patient care and public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the epidemiology, clinical features, and visual outcomes following intraocular foreign body (IOFB) removal.
• To identify factors influencing visual acuity (VA) up to 18 months post-removal.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective multicenter cohort study utilizing the American Academy of Ophthalmology IRIS® Registry.
• Analysis of sociodemographic data, clinical presentation, surgical procedures, and complications in eyes undergoing IOFB removal (January 2016 - October 2024).
• Multivariable regression models were used to determine predictors of visual outcomes.

Main Results:

• The study identified 4784 eyes with a mean annual incidence of 2.28 per 100,000 patient-years, associated with male sex, race, and rural residence.
• Common complications included retinal detachment (12.5%), cataract (10.5%), vitreous hemorrhage (7.9%), and endophthalmitis (3.9%).
• Visual acuity improved significantly from 2 months post-IOFB removal, with further minor gains up to 18 months. Black or African American race, endophthalmitis, retinal detachment, and hyphema at baseline were linked to worse outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The findings establish a real-world benchmark for visual trajectories after IOFB removal, aiding prognostication and patient counseling.
• Further research is warranted to address racial disparities in outcomes and promote equitable eye care.