Papers Presented at the 4th Western Pediatric Trauma Conference Snowmass, Colorado, July 2016Injuries and outcomes associated with recreational vehicle accidents in pediatric trauma

PurposeTo identify injuries and outcomes from Recreational/Off-Highway Vehicles (RV/OHV) accidents at a pediatric trauma center.MethodsA retrospective review of a prospective pediatric trauma registry was performed to identify patients sustaining injuries from an RV/OHV between January 2007 and July 2015. Vehicles included: all-terrain vehicles (ATV), dirt bikes, utility-terrain vehicles (UTV), golf carts, go-karts, and dune buggies.ResultsFive hundred twenty-eight patients were injured while on an RV/OHV: 269 ATV, 135 dirt bike, 42 UTV, 38 golf cart, 34 go-kart, and 10 dune buggy. The majority (n = 381, 72%) had at least one injury with an Abbreviated Injury Scale ≥ 2; 39% (n = 204) had orthopedic injuries and 22% (n = 116) had central neurologic injuries. Over three-fourths (n = 412, 78%) were admitted. For the 48% (n = 253) of patients requiring surgery, 654 surgical procedures were performed. Median hospital charge was $27,565 (IQR: $15,553-$44,935). Excluding golf carts, helmet use was 49% (n = 231); 16% (n = 76) wore protective clothing. Only 22% (n = 26) wore a restraining belt.ConclusionSevere injuries occur in children who ride RV/OHV often warranting admission and surgical intervention. Improved understanding of RV/OHV injuries may guide caregivers in decision-making about pediatric RV/OHV use and encourage use of protective gear.Level of Evidence: Level II, Prognosis Study.