Abstract

Study design
Pilot study, surgical technique
Purpose
We describe a novel intraoperative optical coherence tomography (i-OCT) guided surgical technique for removal of multiple subconjunctival foreign bodies (FB) with minimal injury to the surrounding tissues in cases of blast injuries.
Methods
Five patients with blast injuries to the face presenting with multiple subconjunctival foreign bodies underwent removal of these foreign bodies with the i-OCT guided ‘pinch and snip technique’. Holding foreign body with forceps reduces bleeding and prevents slippage.
Results
At three months of follow-up, all eyes had an excellent anatomical outcome with no residual pellets/foreign bodies in the conjunctiva.
Conclusion
The technique can be easily performed in patients with multiple foreign bodies in the subconjunctival space following blast injuries with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues. It does not require any sophisticated surgical instrumentation and is easily reproducible.

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