Motorcycle and Equestrian Trauma: An ACS TQIP Comparative Study
Daniel E Ross1, Satyam K Ghodasara, Justin S Roskam
1Department of Surgery, Morristown Medical Center, Morristown, New Jersey.
Summary
Motorcycle and equestrian accidents cause different injuries, with motorcyclists more prone to chest trauma and equestrians to hip/pelvic injuries. Increased safety gear, particularly helmets for equestrians, is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Trauma surgery
- Accident analysis
- Public health
Background:
- Motorcycle and equestrian accidents share similar trauma mechanisms, leading to severe injuries.
- Understanding injury variations is vital for improving rider safety and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze injury patterns, severity, and outcomes in motorcycle and equestrian riders.
- To compare safety standards and identify areas for improvement in both activities.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the 2020 American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (ACS TQIP) database.
- Identified 17,730 motorcycle riders and 5,461 equestrian riders with non-collision fall or throw injuries.
- Analyzed injury types, severity, and outcomes between the two groups.
Main Results:
- Motorcyclists sustained more superficial injuries and chest trauma; equestrians had higher rates of abdominal, pelvic, and head/neck injuries.
- Equestrians experienced more injuries to extremities and the pelvic girdle compared to motorcyclists.
- Motorcyclists had a longer average inpatient stay, but injury severity scores were similar; helmet use was significantly higher in motorcyclists.
Conclusions:
- Significant differences in injury patterns exist between motorcycle and equestrian accidents.
- There is a critical need for enhanced safety equipment, especially for hip and pelvic protection in equestrian activities.
- The low rate of helmet use among equestrian riders is a major concern, underscoring the need for improved safety awareness and adoption.
