Snowmobile injuries in Antarctica 1989-1996

A retrospective analysis of accidents involving snowmobiles experienced by members of the British Antarctic Survey between 1989 and 1996 revealed 37 injured individuals (or 1.9% of new consultations). The mean incidence was 26.5/1000 population/year, with the incidence rising over the study period. The commonest injury (35%) was a lower limb sprain. Head injuries accounted for 22% of cases. Both fractures and radiological investigations were recorded significantly (chi 2 p < 0.025) more frequently than for injuries of all causes, although no significant difference was found in Injury Severity Scores (1) between the two groups. Alcohol was implicated in 5.4% of cases.