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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Saleem Islam, MD, Shannon Orr, BS, and Laura R. Vick, MD. Surgery, University of Mississippi Medical School, 2500 N State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, 601 984 5050, shannon_orr@yahoo.com

Purpose: ATV related accidents in children are on the rise in the US. Data on patients who go back to using ATV's despite sustaining injuries in children and adolescents is not well known. Methods: All children and adolescents who presented to our institution with an ATV related injury from January 2000 - December 2004 were included. A retrospective review was carried out and data regarding the mechanisms, type of injury, procedures, demographics, hospital course and follow up were compiled. A telephone survey was carried out to investigate the rate of recidivism, helmet use, and outcomes. Results: 175 cases of ATV associated injuries were noted. Mean age was 12.5±0.33 years, 78 % were male, and 84% were drivers. Only 8 patients (4.9%) were wearing helmets.61% had multiple injuries, half (49%) extremity fractures while 42% brain injuries. Average hospital costs were $21,885 (±2430). We contacted 101 of 170 survivors (58%) by telephone. 61% rode an ATV again at least once, and 40% did so more than 20 times. 85% of these were male, and helmet use was 16%. 14 patients were having problems with school performance, yet 6 of them still rode ATV's. Conclusions: ATV trauma is a significant burden on trauma resources. There is a high rate of recidivism with ATV use after injury in children. Helmet use improved, but remained unacceptably low. Continuing parent, patient, and public education is necessary to improve safety.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants should be able to

• Understand the social and financial burden of ATV related accidents on health and trauma care
• Identify chidren who need follow up after motor vehicle related accidents
• Develop an action plan to educate children on the appropriate use of protective equipment after an ATV related accident

Keywords: Injury Prevention, Public Health Education and Health Promotion

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered