title: A comparison of rust-ring removal methods in a rabbit model: small-gauge hypodermic needle versus electric drill.
abstract: Corneal rust rings are common findings after removal of a metallic foreign body. These rings should be removed to prevent inflammation and scarring. We compared the corneal damage in rabbit eyes caused by rust-ring removal using two different methods: a small-gauge hypodermic needle and a hand-held electric ophthalmic drill. No significant difference was found in the amount of corneal scarring as graded by a masked observer. However, there was a trend toward deeper stromal damage in the drill-treated subjects (207 +/- 73 microns) than in the needle-treated subjects (172 +/- 61 microns). In light of this finding, we suggest caution in removing central rust rings with an electric drill since an avoidable, permanent scar may result.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City.
authors.forename: R L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Liston
authors.forename: R J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Olson
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Mamalis
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003315:Cornea / Q000601:surgery*; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005129:Eye Foreign Bodies / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005296:Ferrous Compounds; D008297:Male; D011817:Rabbits; D011897:Random Allocation
chemical_list: D005296:Ferrous Compounds; C034236:ferrous oxide