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Injury Patterns Associated With Electronic Scooter Crashes: An Institutional Observational Study
Andrew D Rickelmann1, Tuan M Nguyen1, Michael T Martyak1
1Department of Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
The American Surgeon
|March 3, 2023
Summary
Electronic scooter use leads to significant trauma, including soft tissue, orthopedic, and maxillofacial injuries. Many injured riders require hospitalization and surgery, highlighting the need for increased safety awareness.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Rising popularity of electronic scooters has led to an increase in associated injuries.
- Understanding the patterns of electronic scooter trauma is crucial for public safety.
- Previous research has not fully characterized the spectrum of injuries related to these devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate electronic scooter-related traumas at a single institution.
- To characterize the common types of injuries sustained by riders.
- To inform the public about the safety risks associated with electronic scooters.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patients treated for electronic scooter trauma.
- Data collected from trauma service at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
- Analysis of injury types, demographic data, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- The study population was predominantly male, aged 24-64 years.
- Most common injuries included soft tissue, orthopedic, and maxillofacial trauma.
- 45.1% of patients required hospital admission, and 29.4% needed surgery.
Conclusions:
- Electronic scooter use presents significant health risks, necessitating safety considerations.
- The benefits of e-scooter transportation should be weighed against potential injuries.
- Further research is needed to address safety concerns and mitigate trauma.

