All-terrain vehicle (ATV)-related injuries among different age groups: insights from a 9-year observational study

Abstract

Purpose To describe the epidemiology, patterns, seasonality and outcome of all-terrain vehicle-related injuries (ATVRIs) among different age groups in Qatar. Methods A retrospective analysis of all patients hospitalized with ATVRI from 2010 to 2018 was conducted. Data were analyzed by age, gender, seasonality, and Injury severity Score (ISS). Chi-square, Student t and ANOVA tests were used for analysis. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to find out predictors of head injury and severe injury among ATV users. Results Out of 15,000 trauma admissions, 521 had ATVRI (4%) with a mean age of 23.3 ± 12.3. The male-to-female ratio was 4:1 and the pediatric population represented 40%. The compliance with helmet use was 3.6%. The most injured regions were chest (29.8%), upper extremities (28.8%) and the head (25.9%). The mean ISS was 10.6 ± 7.7. Fracture fixation was the most operative intervention. Among hospitalized patients, 7.7% were transferred to rehabilitation . ATVRIs occurred more frequently between October and April and a large proportion (57.8%) occurred during weekends. The overall ATV-related hospital mortality rate was 2.1%. Young and older ATV users were more likely to suffer spine injuries than the pediatric population (p = 0.001). The mean ISS was greater in the older groups (p = 0.03). There were no statistically significant differences regarding the use of protective devices, mortality, or length of hospital stay between the different age groups. On multivariate analysis, young age and ISS were predictors of head injury among ATV users after adjusting for gender and helmet use. Conclusion This is a nationwide study looking at all age groups who sustained ATVRI in Qatar. ATVRIs were observed in all age groups following leisure and recreational use. It follows a seasonal pattern with poor protective measures compliance. There is a need to reinforce helmet use and raise public awareness.

Riding into Danger: Predictive Modeling for ATV-Related Injuries and Seasonal Patterns

“…Riders engaging in ATV sports and recreation may take more risks and be less cautious, which can also increase the likelihood of incidents. Lastly, the lack of proper training, safety measures and enforcement of safety guidelines in these areas can contribute to the high number of injuries [34,35].…”

Pediatric Microsurgery and Free-Tissue Transfer

“…3 and 4). [37][38][39] The overall incidence of lower extremity Gustilo type III trauma is less common in the pediatric population compared to the adult population, given relative bony pliability and height in relation to trauma. 40 It is particularly rare in the upper and middle 1/3 of the lower extremity, though foot and ankle injury requiring microsurgical reconstruction is relatively common.…”