Periocular Nonmetallic Foreign Bodies: Clinical Profile, Management, and Outcomes - A Retrospective Analysis at a...

To evaluate the demographic profile, clinical presentation, type of retained nonmetallic periocular foreign bodies (FBs), and treatment outcomes.

This retrospective observational study reviewed the hospital records of 23 patients who presented with periocular nonmetallic FBs between January 2021 and December 2024. Data collected included demographic details, etiology, type and location of foreign body, clinical presentation, microbiological culture results, surgical approach, and outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis.

The majority of patients were males accounting for 73.9%, with a mean age of 29.5 years. The right eye was more commonly involved, with no bilateral cases. Wooden sticks were the most common foreign body observed in 60.86%, followed by stone, plastic, and glass. The most frequent clinical presentation was lacerated lid injury in 47.8%. Culture was positive in 39.1% and was dominated by Gram-positive cocci. Only two patients developed scarring on long term, otherwise no major complications were noted.

Nonmetallic periocular FBs, especially organic ones such as wood, can pose a high risk of infection but generally have a favorable prognosis if managed early. Early diagnosis remains crucial to prevent rare but serious complications.