Old and new techniques combined in the management of intraocular foreign bodies

A series of patients is presented to illustrate how new techniques are combined with traditional ones in the management of intraocular foreign bodies. Whereas X-ray remains the most sensitive method for detecting metallic foreign bodies and can adequately localize most, ultrasonography and CT scans are shown to be of value in selected cases. Similarly, while magnetic extraction remains the most common method of removal, the techniques developed for pars plana vitrectomy make the use of intraocular forceps relatively safe for those cases unresponsive to the magnet. THe role of vitrectomy in cases with vitreous hemorrhage is discussed.