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Cervical spinal fractures in Alpine skiers
1Orthopedic Associates of Aspen and Glenwood, CO 81611, USA.
Orthopedics
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Skiing can cause serious cervical fractures, averaging 3.6 per year in Aspen/Snowmass. Collisions with objects increase the risk of severe injuries, including paralysis and death.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Cervical fractures are a severe skiing injury.
- Understanding injury patterns is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of cervical fractures in skiers.
- To identify risk factors associated with severe skiing-related cervical injuries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of skiing injuries over a 5-year period in Aspen/Snowmass.
- Analysis of patient demographics, injury types, treatment, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- 18 cervical fractures identified (3.6/year), predominantly in men (16/18).
- 33% were spinous process avulsion injuries; 28% had neurologic involvement (2 quadriplegics, 1 death).
- Collisions with objects correlated with more severe injuries and neurologic deficits.
Conclusions:
- Cervical fractures, though rare (0.1% of skiing injuries), can have devastating consequences.
- Older skiers and those colliding with objects face higher risks of severe injury.
- Prompt evaluation is essential for skiers with suspected cervical trauma.