Comparing Single-Site Fractures with Multisite Injuries in Pediatric Skiers and Snowboarders

Abstract

Introduction—

The purpose of this study was to evaluate pediatric skiing and snowboarding fracture injuries at a large ski resort, comparing injury patterns in those who sustained fracture injuries at a single site against those with injuries in multiple sites. Given the more serious nature of multisite injuries, this information may give healthcare providers insight into injury patterns when assessing a patient in snow sport settings.

Methods—

Radiographs of 797 patients aged 3 to 17 y diagnosed with at least 1 skiing- or snowboarding-related fracture at a large ski resort were reviewed by a sports medicine fellowship-trained physician. Descriptive information about regions of injury was provided, and Bonferroni-corrected multivariable logistic regression modeling and χ² tests were used.

Results—

Of the total, 756 patients had single-site fractures, whereas 41 patients had fractures with a secondary injury. Upper extremity fractures were the most common primary injury site in both groups at 61%. The head/neck was the most common location of a second injury, with concussions being the most common injury type. Collision with an object or person and being transferred to a local hospital were independently associated with higher odds of a multisite injury. No significant differences were found when comparing age, sex, self-rated ability, or terrain.

Conclusions—

One must maintain a high index of suspicion for concussions/head injuries following any fracture injury and have a low threshold for working up internal organ injuries with fractures in the torso.