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Published on: November 8, 2024
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Spinal fractures associated with aquatic accidents
Dustin H Massel1, Jaxon D Wagner2, Jonathan Weinerman3
1Endeavor Health / NorthShore University Health System, Department of Spine Surgery, Chicago, IL, 60076, USA.
Journal of Orthopaedics
|June 9, 2025
Summary
Aquatic accidents frequently cause spinal fractures, with boating and personal watercraft incidents being the most common cause. Shallow water dives are particularly linked to severe cervical spine injuries requiring surgery.
Area of Science:
- Trauma surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic surgery
Background:
- Aquatic accidents are associated with severe injuries, including spinal trauma.
- Few studies have specifically investigated the link between aquatic activities and spine injuries.
- Understanding injury patterns is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of spinal fractures in patients with aquatic accidents.
- To identify common mechanisms of injury and injury patterns.
- To analyze factors associated with operative spine injuries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a prospectively collected trauma database.
- Analysis of patients with aquatic accidents from 1999-2020 at a level 1 trauma center.
- Collection of demographic, accident, and injury data; statistical analysis performed.
Main Results:
- 16.7% of 498 aquatic accident patients sustained spinal fractures.
- Boating/Personal Watercraft (PWC) accidents were the most frequent cause (39.8%), followed by shallow water dives (24.1%).
- Non-locals had higher rates of spine surgery (80.8%). Operative injuries linked to subaxial cervical spine fractures and shallow water dives.
Conclusions:
- Spinal fracture prevalence in aquatic accidents is significant.
- Injury patterns vary by mechanism: boating/PWC accidents commonly cause thoracic/lumbar injuries, while shallow water dives lead to operative subaxial cervical spine injuries.
- Further research is needed to improve safety measures and awareness for aquatic activities.
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