Characterizing the Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Orbital Floor Reconstruction: A National Inpatient Sample (NIS) Analysis

Orbital floor fractures result in posterior globe displacement known as enophthalmos, and diplopia due to extraorbital soft tissue impingement. Surgical repair may involve the use of autolo-gous or synthetic materials. Previous studies have demonstrated a higher prevalence of orbital floor fractures among lower socioeconomic status (SES) populations. The authors aimed to characterize the impact of socioeconomic status on surgical management, outcomes, and use of synthetic orbital implant. The authors conducted a cross-sectional study of adult orbital floor fracture patients from 2002 to 2017 using the National Inpatient Sample. Among patients who underwent surgical treatment, our study found decreased synthetic orbital implant use among uninsured and Black patients and decreased home discharge among Medicare patients. There were no differences in orbital reconstruction. Further research is needed to elucidate possible mechanisms driving these findings.