Creation of a Realistic Model for Removal of a Metallic Corneal Foreign Body for Less than $75

BACKGROUND Metallic corneal foreign bodies (MCFB) are one of the most common causes of ocular injury presenting to the emergency department.1-4 Patients are at risk of developing tissue necrosis, infection, and even vision loss if the foreign body is not removed in a timely manner.1-3,5,6 Traditionally, these foreign bodies are removed under slit-lamp examination using a sterile, large-gauge needle, followed by an electric burr to remove the subsequent rust ring.1,3,5-7 Forceful attempts to remove the MCFB can lead to perforation of the anterior chamber, corneal scarring, and worsening of vision.1,6,7 Healthcare providers must use proper technique in removing ocular foreign bodies to prevent these underlying complications.1,6,7 Several studies have shown that simulation improves procedural confidence and skill in MCFB removal.4,6,7 Models made from bovine eyes, agar plates, gelatin, and corneas created from glass and paraffin wax have previously been created; however, the use of corneas created from ballistics gel for MCFB removal has not been studied.4,6,7 We propose a realistic, sustainable, cost-effective MCFB task-trainer to introduce the fundamental skills required for MCFB removal. This task-trainer also helps with the kinesthetics required for measurement of intraocular pressure (IP) with a TonoPen. In a brief PubMed search using the words Tono-Pen task-trainer, IP task-trainer, ocular glaucoma task-trainer, and IP simulator, only one study using a rubber glove filled with water was found to simulate this task.8