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Amputations and Avulsion Injuries due to Human/Equine Interaction
Randall T Loder1, Alyssa L Walker1, Laurel C Blakemore2
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|August 6, 2025
Summary
Horse-related activities rarely cause amputations and avulsions, but these severe injuries occur. A national database study found ropes were involved in a quarter of these equine injuries, highlighting a key risk factor.
Area of Science:
- Traumatology
- Public Health
- Equine Science
Background:
- Horse-associated injuries, including amputations and avulsions, can lead to significant long-term impairment.
- Understanding the epidemiology of these rare but severe injuries is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence, demographics, and mechanisms of horse-associated amputation and avulsion injuries.
- To analyze injury patterns using a national emergency department database.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the US National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) from 2000-2023.
- Collected demographic data (age, sex) and injury details for identified cases.
- Analyzed injury mechanisms, including riding, equipment issues, and falls, with a focus on rope involvement.
Main Results:
- Identified 120 amputation/avulsion cases (0.35% of 34,091 equine injuries).
- Average age was 37 years; 78 females and 42 males.
- Riding (31%) and rope involvement (24%) were common injury mechanisms; ropes were more frequent in amputations (42% vs. 10%).
Conclusions:
- This is the largest study on horse-associated amputations/avulsions to date.
- Multiple injury mechanisms exist, with ropes being a significant factor in a quarter of cases.
- Findings provide baseline data for developing targeted prevention strategies.
