Cost and inpatient burden of orbital fracture management: A 14-year analysis

Introduction The complexity of orbital fracture management necessitates systematic investigation of the financial burden of these fractures and the cost-effectiveness of management. Here, we analyze the cost and inpatient burden of patients presenting with orbital fractures at an academic medical center. Methods A retrospective chart review of 1449 patients presenting with orbital fractures between 2008 and 2022 was performed. Patient characteristics, treatment approach, length of stay (LOS), and hospital costs were collected. Linear regression and pairwise comparison tests were performed to identify factors associated with increased cost burden and LOS. Results Of the 2093 total orbital fractures, the most common locations were floor (50%) and medial wall (24%). Average cost of management did not significantly change over time (p = 0.072), while average LOS decreased (6.3–4 days, p = 0.050). Compared to injuries from falls, traffic injuries were associated with higher cost ($36,703 vs. $12,513, p < 0.001). The presence of ≥4 facial fractures was associated with higher cost ($29,746 vs. $6415, p < 0.001), while surgical management was associated with longer LOS (8.3 vs. 3.5 days, p < 0.001). Conclusions The cost or inpatient burden of treating patients with orbital fractures is greater in patients with traffic injuries, ≥4 facial fractures, and operative management.