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Orthopaedic injuries from deer stands and their functional outcomes
Michael S Hughes1, Michael W Bauer, Gregory J Della Rocca
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65212, USA.
Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances
|May 1, 2013
Summary
Falls from deer stands frequently cause multiple fractures, including severe spinal injuries. Emphasizing safe hunting practices and proper tree stand use is crucial for hunter safety.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Falls from elevated hunting positions, such as deer stands, pose a significant risk of severe injury to hunters.
- Understanding the patterns and severity of injuries resulting from these falls is essential for developing targeted safety interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the types and severity of injuries sustained by patients falling from deer stands.
- To evaluate the treatment and functional outcomes of individuals injured in deer stand falls.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of medical records from 2002 to 2008 at a single institution.
- Analysis of patient demographics, tree stand characteristics, and injury details.
- Functional outcome assessment using the SF-12 health survey.
Main Results:
- Thirty patients sustained an average of 2.08 fractures each.
- Sixteen patients had spinal column fractures, with four experiencing spinal cord injuries.
- Twenty-one patients required surgical intervention from trauma, neurosurgery, or orthopedic surgery teams.
Conclusions:
- Falls from deer stands can lead to complex and severe injuries, including multiple fractures and spinal trauma.
- Adherence to safe hunting recommendations and proper use of deer stands is critical for preventing these injuries.
- Enhanced hunter education emphasizing tree stand safety is recommended.
