Craniofacial Injuries in Lacrosse: A Novel Algorithm for Injury Assessment.
Ethan L Plotsker1, Prakash Mathew, Erin M Wolfe
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|March 3, 2021
Summary
Female lacrosse players face a higher risk of concussions, potentially due to coaching and anatomical differences. This study highlights the need for better player safety protocols in youth lacrosse.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Lacrosse participation is increasing rapidly in the U.S.
- Inexperienced players and coaches may be ill-equipped for trauma management.
- Gender-specific differences in lacrosse gameplay impact injury profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze craniofacial injuries in lacrosse players.
- To identify injury trends based on age and gender.
- To inform injury management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database.
- Queried for craniofacial injuries sustained during lacrosse play.
Main Results:
- Concussions were the most frequent injury.
- Younger players (10-14) had higher contusion risk; older players (15-19) had higher laceration risk.
- Females showed increased concussion and head injury risk compared to males.
Conclusions:
- Increased concussion risk in females may stem from inadequate coaching or anatomical factors (shorter neck dimensions).
- Female athletes may experience more severe outcomes from sports-related concussions.
- Findings can guide the development of a craniofacial injury assessment tool for lacrosse.
