Comparative Study of Craniofacial Injuries in Skiing Versus Snowboarding: A NEISS Database Study
Benjamin F Bitner1, Samipya Kafle2, Eric H Abello1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|August 20, 2025
Summary
Skiing and snowboarding cause thousands of head and neck injuries annually. Helmet use is linked to fewer concussions, highlighting its importance in preventing serious skiing and snowboarding injuries.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Skiing and snowboarding are increasingly popular winter sports.
- There is limited data on head and neck injuries, particularly concussions, in these sports, especially concerning helmet use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiology of skiing and snowboarding-related head and neck injuries.
- To investigate the association between helmet use and concussion rates in these sports.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database.
- Analyzed data from 2011 to 2020 for demographics, injury types, and outcomes.
- Focused on head and neck injuries in skiers and snowboarders.
Main Results:
- An estimated 87,994 head and neck injuries occurred between 2011 and 2020.
- Concussions were the most common injury (57.7%), more frequent in snowboarding.
- Injuries were more common in skiers admitted to the hospital, while concussions were more prevalent in those without helmet use.
Conclusions:
- Thorough head and neck examinations are crucial for skiing/snowboarding injuries.
- Emphasis on helmet use, concussion, laceration, and fracture evaluation is recommended.
- Helmet use is strongly advised to mitigate head injury risks.
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