Imaging of Snow Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries

Imaging Review of Alpine Ski Injuries

“…21,51,52 These milder injuries are often underreported and more common in women and in novice or intermediate-level skiers. 38 The incidence of meniscal tears in association with ACL tears in skiers is between 23% and 55%, slightly less than the rates in the nonskiing population with 59%. [50][51][52] They are usually lowgrade injuries and often peripheral detachments in the socalled red-red zone of the lateral meniscus that typically resolve with conservative management.…”

“…37 "Skier's hip" is a coined term used to describe proximal femoral (proximal diaphyseal, subtrochanteric, peritrochanteric) fractures in cross-country and alpine skiing either due to direct or rotational trauma. 35,38 These injuries were originally more common in skiing than snowboarding due to the faster speeds required in skiing, although this could change as snowboarders' skills further evolve. 11 Several studies have predicted increased frequency of femoral fractures in the future due to advances in ski equipment, grooming of slopes, and snowmaking that allow for higher velocities.…”

“…53 In addition to severe ligament injuries about the knee, some authors have observed a disturbing increase in the incidence of tibial plateau fractures. 5,18,38,54 These are typically lateral plateau fractures of types Schatzker I, II, or III, with rising rates of higher energy Schatzker IV through VI types. 18…”

“…As the tail of one ski is planted onto the ski of the person riding beside them, the load of the ski causes the sharp edge to engage the soft plastic beneath the ski upon standing, and the forward and downhill momentum off the lift leads to a phenomenon that resembles a phantom foot. 38 Slip catch is common in ski racing and occurs when a skier is unable to follow the ski's motion and path during a highspeed turn. 49 The skier loses pressure on the outer ski, constraining them to extend the lower limb to regain traction.…”