Craniofacial Trauma of Equestrian Origin

Horse riding is a popular yet dangerous sport, often resulting in facial traumas due to unpredictable horse reactions or falls. This retrospective study examines 20 patients. The aim of the study is to analyze maxillofacial traumas of equine origin and discuss prevention strategies. Conducted from 2004 to 2021 at our university hospital's emergency department in France, inclusion criteria encompassed patients with maxillofacial trauma admitted to the emergency department and referred to ENT and/or dentistry post-horse-related accidents. Patients were identified from the Health Data warehouse. While 35 medical files were accessed, 15 did not meet inclusion criteria. Analysis of patient parameters, including age, sex, injury date, circumstances, injury type, management, helmet usage, operative interventions, and potential sequelae, revealed a predominantly female population (16 versus 4) under 48 years old. Traumas were most prevalent in summer (80%) and frequently involved riders on foot (60%). Seventy percent of patients sustained at least 1 facial fracture, with helmet use documented in only 1 case. In conclusion, horse riding can lead to various traumas, often necessitating surgical intervention. Preventive measures such as protective helmets, even for nonmounted riders, are crucial as the literature highlights many injuries occurring due to helmet omission.