E-Scooter facial fractures: A comparative cohort study

Area of Science:

• Traumatology
• Public Health
• Orthopedics

Background:

• The proliferation of electric scooters (e-scooters) has led to an increase in associated injuries.
• Facial fractures represent a significant subset of trauma resulting from e-scooter incidents.
• Understanding the patterns and contributing factors of these fractures is crucial for public safety initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the distribution and patterns of facial fractures resulting from e-scooter trauma.
• To investigate the impact of e-scooter use on facial fracture incidence.
• To identify factors associated with e-scooter related facial injuries.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of prospective audit data on facial fractures.
• Inclusion of patient demographics, mode of injury, and specific facial bones affected.
• Collection of data on intoxication, helmet use, and soft tissue injury.

Main Results:

• Out of 849 facial fracture patients, 34 were linked to e-scooter use.
• Half of injured e-scooter riders were intoxicated; a quarter wore helmets.
• Zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures were the most prevalent pattern; most patients needed surgery.

Conclusions:

• A rise in facial fractures correlates with the introduction of shared e-scooter trials.
• Intoxication and lack of helmet use are significant risk factors.
• Policy interventions are needed to enforce regulations and mitigate healthcare costs from preventable e-scooter trauma.