ATV-Related Trauma in the Pediatric Population

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Pediatric Trauma
• Public Health

Background:

• All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are a common source of injury in the pediatric population in Appalachia.
• Pediatric ATV-related traumas result in substantial morbidity and mortality.
• A 15-year study period was analyzed to understand injury patterns and severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the types and severity of injuries in pediatric patients involved in ATV accidents.
• To analyze accident demographics, hospitalizations, and injury characteristics across different age groups.
• To identify trends and factors contributing to pediatric ATV-related trauma over a 15-year period.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of pediatric ATV-related trauma cases from 2005 to 2020.
• Patients categorized into three age groups: 0-7, 8-12, and 13-17 years.
• Analysis included demographics, hospitalization data, injury severity scores, substance use, and injury types.

Main Results:

• 802 pediatric patients were included; 71.7% were male, with a mean age of 12.4 years.
• Common injuries included fractures (49%), head/face injuries (46%), and intra-abdominal/thoracic injuries (16%).
• Older children were more prone to spine and pelvic fractures, while younger children had higher humerus fracture rates. Substance use was noted in older age groups.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric ATV accidents are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.
• Specific injury patterns vary by age group, with older children experiencing more severe fractures.
• Further interventions are crucial to mitigate the impact of pediatric ATV injuries.