Skiing and snowboarding injuries and their impact on the emergency care system in South Tyrol: a restrospective analysis for the winter season 2001–2002

Abstract

Incidence, pattern of injuries and mortality from skiing and snowboarding accidents in South Tyrol resemble those reported in other part of the world. Nevertheless, strategies for prevention are needed. The routine use of helmets should be enforced by law. Dangerous behaviors should be prosecuted. Skiers and snowboarders should be made aware that skiing beyond their technical ability can be life-threatening.

Surgical risks associated with winter sport tourism

“…Since the 1970s, their incidence has dropped by half while upper extremity fractures and knees sprains became the most common injury types [29,30]. Our results are consistent with previous studies evidencing an increase in the volume of orthopaedic procedures performed during winter around ski resorts [5,6,8,9,10,11,31,32]. The observed peak in emergency admissions for open surgery was primarily associated with tourist populations.…”

“…Injuries are typically witnessed most frequently in younger tourists who practice skiing or snowboarding with beginner or medium level experience at high speeds with new equipment and insufficient perception of the risk incurred [6,7,8,9]. Traumas tend to be more serious for non-local residents and usually affect the knees, shoulders and hands [10,11]. Severe head injuries can even cause life-threatening situations [12].…”

Mountain mortality: a review of deaths that occur during recreational activities in the mountains

“…Fatalities in downhill skiing and ski jumping tend to occur as a result of a fall or a collision with either a tree, post or other skiers (table 4). 19 20 22–25 28…”

Annual trauma load of the world’s largest indoor skiing center

“…This is slightly lower compared to the estimated two to eight injuries per 1000 days skied outdoors [1][2][3]. Nevertheless, when considering the impact for our hospital A&E, the encountered number of patients is comparable to a hospital in South Tyrol during the winter sport season [4]. Furthermore, given the number of ambulance rides, casts, transportations to the place of residence, absence from work etc., the costs must be considered substantial [5,6].…”