What type of corneal foreign bodies can ODs safely remove?

Optometrists (ODs) in California are authorized to remove certain types of corneal foreign bodies, particularly those that are nonperforating and located at a depth not deeper than the mid stroma. This means that ODs can safely extract foreign bodies that are superficial and do not penetrate deeply into the cornea, minimizing the risk of complications.

The rationale for this is rooted in the training that optometrists receive, which equips them with the skills to perform minor surgical procedures, including the removal of foreign bodies from the superficial layers of the cornea. A nonperforating foreign body located at a shallow depth can often be extracted with minimal risk, allowing the corneal tissue to heal effectively without the need for more invasive interventions.

In contrast, perforating foreign bodies generally indicate a more serious injury that could compromise the integrity of the eye, requiring surgical intervention by an ophthalmologist rather than removal by an optometrist. Similarly, nonperforating foreign bodies without a depth limitation could potentially pose a risk if they are deeper than what the optometrist is trained or permitted to handle. Lastly, while visualization is important, it is not a defining factor in determining which foreign bodies ODs can safely remove, as many foreign bodies can