Head and neck penetrating trauma caused by airbag dysfunction: A case series and literature review

Road traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury and death globally. Airbags are critical safety systems designed to protect vehicle occupants during collisions. Despite their benefits, concerns about airbag safety arose following the Takata Corporation scandal, which resulted in significant recalls due to defective airbags linked to serious injuries, including maxillofacial trauma.

This case series reports on adults with penetrating head and neck injuries caused by airbag malfunctions, treated at a maxillofacial trauma center in Paris, France, from November 2021 to September 2024. We also performed a literature review of cases published from 1992 to 2024, focusing on similar penetrating injuries.

Three cases of penetrating trauma were analyzed, highlighting complex facial injuries requiring extensive surgical interventions, including reconstructions with free flaps. The literature review revealed seven reported cases, predominantly affecting young males, with high mortality rates due to vascular injuries from foreign bodies.

The findings underscore the severe consequences of airbag malfunctions, emphasizing the need for urgent medical interventions and reconstructive surgeries. This case series calls for a reevaluation of airbag safety standards to prevent future injuries and ensure enhanced training for healthcare providers managing such trauma.