Orthopedic Trauma From Recreational All-Terrain Vehicle Use in Central Kentucky: A 6-Year Review

Abstract

Almost half of all patients sustained one fracture or joint dislocation with the spine being the most prevalent location. Injury severity, the low number referred to rehabilitation facilities, and predominantly rural residence locations suggests that many may not be accessing needed healthcare services. Prospective longitudinal outcome studies are needed to assess patient functional independence, quality of life, and health care system effectiveness.

All-Terrain Vehicle-Related Orthopaedic Trauma in North Central West Virginia

“…This percentage is similar to previous studies; however, we found a higher ratio of upper extremity injuries than previously reported. 4,10 We found that the lower extremity and spine typically sustained more severe injuries. One previous study did not include patients who were admitted for less than 2 days.…”

“…It is estimated that 7.8 million ATVs are now in use throughout the United States. 1,3,4 The popularity and potentially devastating effects of ATVs are more evident in rural settings. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated that 60% of all ATVrelated injuries occur in rural areas.…”

Spectrum of all-terrain vehicle injuries in adults: A case series and review of the literature

“…5,15 It has been reported that loss of consciousness occurs in over half of ATV related injuries. 7 Almost one third of head injuries involved skull fractures and CT imaging demonstrated significant intracranial haemorrhage in one fifth of these head injury patients. 16 While Fig.…”

“…3,5,6 Risk factors for ATV related injury and death include male sex, age <18, white race, rural residence, intoxication, driving inexperience, recreational use of ATV as opposed to work related usage and large engine size. 7 Large engine ATV production has increased threefold since 2003. 8 These large engine vehicles can reach speeds of up to 120 km per hour and may weigh in excess of 230 kg.…”

“…5,15 Pulmonary collapse or contusion, hepatic trauma and splenic disruption contribute significantly to ATV morbidity. 7,15 While head injuries are frequently managed conservatively, disruption of thoracic and abdominal organs are more likely to require operative intervention in the emergency setting and frequently necessitate the transfer of patients to Level 1 trauma centres.…”