Magnetized Forceps for Metallic Corneal Foreign Bodies

Abstract

<h3>To the Editor.</h3> —Corneal foreign bodies are frequently ferromagnetic. These foreign bodies and their resultant rust rings should be removed.¹Cotton-tipped applicators, hypodermic needles, and dental burrs are commonly used to extricate shards and rust rings.²Although an embedded particle can be displaced by the needle, it may not easily be lifted from the epithelial surface. We have found the following instrument helpful in the removal of corneal magnetic foreign bodies and their rust rings. A magnet is attached to the handle of a sterile jeweler's forceps, rendering the tips magnetic (Figure). One or multiple metallic foreign bodies can be dislodged and magnetically lifted or grasped. The tips of most forceps are slightly less sharp than the tip of a hypodermic needle and, when used tangentially, they facilitate foreign-body and rust-ring removal with less risk of impaling the cornea if the patient moves.