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Personal watercraft crash injuries: an emerging problem
D V Shatz1, O C Kirton, M G McKenney
1Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Florida 33101, USA.
The Journal of Trauma
|February 17, 1998
Summary
Personal watercraft (PWC) injuries are increasing. Many drowning deaths could be prevented with personal flotation devices, and severe internal injuries are common in PWC crashes.
Area of Science:
- Trauma research
- Accident analysis
- Public health
Background:
- Personal watercraft (PWC) popularity has surged, leading to more injuries.
- A study analyzed 37 victims of PWC-related injuries treated at a trauma center or deceased.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the patterns and severity of injuries resulting from personal watercraft accidents.
- To identify potential preventative measures for PWC-related trauma.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 37 PWC injury victims.
- Analysis included trauma center patients and fatalities examined by a medical examiner.
Main Results:
- 12 fatalities occurred, six from drowning (one wearing a personal flotation device).
- Severe injuries included transected aortas, brain injuries, spinal fractures, and skeletal fractures.
- Significant intra-abdominal injuries (liver, spleen, kidney lacerations, vascular injuries) were noted in 13.5% of victims.
Conclusions:
- PWC crashes cause significant injuries and fatalities.
- Use of personal flotation devices could prevent many drowning deaths.
- The risk of serious intra-abdominal injury requires appropriate medical management.
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