Removal of semitranslucent cactus spines embedded in deep cornea with the aid of a fiberoptic illuminator.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report a rare case of multiple cactus spines embedded deep in the cornea that were removed with the aid of a fiberoptic illuminator. DESIGN: Interventional case report. METHODS: A 20-year-old man had an accidental ocular injury of the right eye when he hit a household miniature cactus plant. There were 80 to 90 spiculated foreign bodies embedded in the cornea, some of them even penetrating the anterior chamber. RESULTS: Removal of the foreign bodies was performed with the aid of a fiberoptic illuminator, which was chosen because it provides superior visualization of the semitranslucent spines. No residual corneal spines were found postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Household miniature cactus plants can cause corneal injury, with multiple foreign bodies that can be difficult to localize and remove. The use of a fiberoptic illuminator in such a situation is simple and effective.