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Abstract

Background: We studied foot and ankle (F/A) injuries that occurred in motor vehicle accidents treated in a Level 1 trauma center.

Methods: The records of F/A injuries of 2248 consecutive orthopedic patients were reviewed to find foot and ankle injuries.

Results: Pilon fractures were common. Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) occupants with F/A injuries had a higher injury Severity Score than those without (17.9 vs. 11.6, p <. 001). MVA F/A injury risk was higher without restraint [relative risk ratio (rrr) 1.68, p <. 0032] than with restraint except for air bagged drivers who were similar to unrestrained drivers (rrr 1.18, p > .05, NS).

Conclusion: Patients with F/A injuries may have serious associated injuries. Air bags may not protect feet.

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Foot and Ankle Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Abstract

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References