Which of the following walls of the orbit is MOST susceptible to a blowout fracture secondary to blunt ocular trauma?

Study for the OptoPrep National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam success!

The floor of the orbit is most susceptible to a blowout fracture due to its anatomical positioning and structural composition. The orbital floor is primarily formed by the maxillary bone, which is relatively thin and more fragile compared to the other walls of the orbit. When blunt force trauma occurs, such as from a punch or a fall, the pressure can cause the floor to fracture, leading to herniation of orbital contents into the maxillary sinus.

This type of fracture is termed a "blowout fracture" because it often results from direct impact to the globe, causing the floor to be pushed down, while the surrounding structures may remain intact. Additionally, the presence of the maxillary sinus below the orbital floor makes it a common site for these types of fractures.

In summary, the anatomical characteristics of the orbital floor—its thin and relatively weaker structure—along with its proximity to the sinus cavity, make it the most vulnerable to injury during blunt trauma.

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