Penetrating Eye Injuries Caused by a Pen, Pencil or Other Writing Implement

 

Writing implement: usually a pen or pencil but any implement with a pointed end.

 

Perpetruator: most often a child but could also be anyone with poor impulse control

 

Method: usually by throwing but could be stabbing

 

Outcome: penetration of the cornea or ocular globe which can result in loss of vision or removal of the eye in the worst case scenario.

 

Steps to take:

(1) Educate people about the danger of throwing things.

(2) Enforce rules about not throwing things.

(3) Provide supervision of high risk populations such as children.

(4) Educate people about the need to report throwing incidents.

(5) Evaluate any injury to the eye immediately, even if it appears minor or caused by something seemingly innocuous.