The "Cut It Out" Technique Approach in Open Globe Injury Management Caused by a Penetrating Fishhook Trauma

TL;DR

This case report describes the successful use of the 'cut-it-out' technique to remove a fishhook from a child's eye, highlighting the importance of quick action and proper care to prevent vision loss.

Contribution

The paper presents a practical case of the 'cut-it-out' technique for fishhook removal and emphasizes the need for immediate first aid and infection control.

Findings

The 'cut-it-out' technique effectively removed the fishhook and improved the patient's visual acuity.

Prompt surgical intervention and postoperative care are essential to prevent complications like infection and retinal detachment.

Protective eyewear and public awareness campaigns are recommended to reduce fishhook-related ocular injuries.

Abstract

This case report explores fishhook-related ocular injuries, which vary in severity and may involve different ocular structures. It focuses on the "cut-it-out" technique for removing an embedded fishhook and highlights its effectiveness. Additionally, it emphasizes the necessity of immediate first aid and infection control in managing these complex ophthalmic cases.

A nine-year-old male patient arrived at our clinic six days post-injury. The ocular examination revealed a corneal laceration, edema, folds in Descemet's membrane, hypopyon, and a retained lens fragment. Visual acuity was significantly impaired. Emergency surgery was conducted under general anesthesia, encompassing wound debridement, paracentesis, extraction of the fishhook, and wound closure. Postoperatively, the patient had a marked enhancement in visual acuity.

Fishhook injuries pose a significant risk due to their barbed structure and potential for bacterial contamination. Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention are essential to minimize tissue damage and prevent complications such as infection, cataract formation, vitreous hemorrhage, and retinal detachment. Prophylactic antibiotics and meticulous postoperative care are crucial. Protective eyewear during fishing activities is strongly recommended to reduce the incidence of such injuries, and public awareness campaigns should be promoted.

Fishhook ocular injuries can have devastating consequences for vision, potentially leading to blindness. Prompt diagnosis, immediate surgical intervention, and appropriate postoperative care are crucial for optimal patient outcomes. While the "cut-it-out" technique proved effective, the optimal management approach may vary depending on the specific injury characteristics. Further research is needed to refine our understanding of these injuries and establish evidence-based treatment guidelines.

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