Study reveals sociodemographic factors that affect rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

This retrospective study examined the impact of sociodemographic factors on the presentation and outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Study design

Researchers included 4,061 patients from a single center between 2015 and 2020. Researchers assessed age, gender, race and regional mean household income (MHI) based on ZIP code. Visual acuity at baseline and 12 months after RRD repair were also recorded. The main outcome was foveal attachment at presentation of RRD, single-operation anatomic success and visual acuity.

Outcomes

Independent risk factors for fovea-off presentation of detachment were older age (OR 1.34 per decade), male sex (OR 1.27), non-White race (OR 2.41) and lower MHI (OR 0.94 per $10,000). Cases that required reoperation for RRD repair within 90 days were independently tied to fovea-off presentation (OR 1.47) and non-White race (OR 1.72). At 12 months, visual acuity was worse in patients who had fovea-off, were older, male and non-White but was not linked to MHI.

Limitations

The study was limited by its retrospective study design. The study also used visual acuity as a surrogate for foveal attachment, and individual income was not available.

Clinical significance

These findings reveal associations between sociodemographic factors and the presentation and outcomes of RRD. They highlight why physicians should be aware of socioeconomic disparities that can negatively impact patient prognosis. Additional studies are necessary to validate these findings and help minimize the effect of these factors on ophthalmic patients.