Dealing with penetrating foreign bodies in the eyes of small animals

Abstract

Foreign body injuries are a common reason for referral in veterinary ophthalmology and frequently cause blindness in patients with ocular trauma. Prognosis depends on the extent of the injury to intraocular structures, as well as the type and size of the foreign body. Treatment options range from conservative medical management to surgical intervention to remove the foreign body, address further ocular damage and achieve the best outcome for an animal's vision. This review summarises the types of ocular foreign bodies and their presentations in small animal practice, the role of diagnostic approaches and advanced imaging, treatment and outcomes.