E-scooter related injuries: a retrospective observational study from an Italian Emergency Department

Electric scooters (e-scooters) have become a widespread mode of urban transport. However, their increasing popularity has led to a parallel rise in related accidents, with significant orthopedic and craniofacial injuries.

A retrospective single-center observational study was conducted at the Emergency Department of a trauma center in Rome, including all patients who presented with e-scooter-related trauma between January 2018 and June 2022. Demographic, temporal, and clinical data were collected from electronic medical records. Fractures were classified using standard orthopedic systems (Mason, Weber, Schatzker, Rockwood).

Out of 177 screened patients, 147 met the inclusion criteria (mean age 29.9 years; 71% male). The 15-35 age group accounted for most cases (70%). Accidents occurred more frequently during weekends (55%) and summer months (63%), peaking in September (28 cases). Most injuries resulted from accidental falls (78.2%), while collisions were less frequent. Craniofacial or neurosurgical injuries were identified in 24% of cases. Orthopedic injuries accounted for 51%, mainly affecting the upper limb (59%) and lower limb (37%); both limbs were involved in 4% of cases. Fractures occurred in 72 of 147 patients (49%), and dislocations in 8 of 147 (5%). Surgical treatment was required in 18% of upper limb injuries and 32% of lower limb injuries.

E-scooter use is associated with a substantial burden of trauma in young adults, primarily affecting the upper limbs and craniofacial region. The high proportion of surgically treated cases highlights the need for preventive measures including helmet use, user education, and infrastructure improvement.