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Topic:

​

Issue:

​

Category:

Trauma

Title:

Pediatric Fractures Associated With Riding Bicycles: A National 20-year Analysis

Author:

Huffman, William H. BS; Gupta, Radhika BS; Ayotte, Steven R. BSE; Lawrence, J. Todd R. MD, PhD

Journal:

Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics

Date:

January 2024

Reference:

44(1): p e1-e6, DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000002522

Level Of Evidence:

III

# of Patients:

33,955 fractures identified, representing an estimated 1,007,714 fractures from 2001 to 2020

Study Type:

Retrospective analysis using National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) data

Location:

National (US)

Summary:

This study investigates pediatric fractures associated with bicycle riding over a 20-year period, using the NEISS database to analyze trends, injury patterns, and risk factors such as helmet use and collisions with motor vehicles (MVs).

Methods:

The NEISS database was queried for fractures in children under 18 years associated with bicycle riding between 2001 and 2020. Data on fracture location, helmet use, and MV collisions were analyzed. Linear regression was used to analyze trends over time.

Exclusions:

Patients not actively riding bicycles or those without relevant data (helmet use, MV collision) were excluded.

Results:

Demographics: Most fractures occurred in male children (71.8%), White children (53.1%), and in those aged 10-12 years (30.6%) or 13-15 years (24.8%). Fracture Locations: The most common fractures occurred in the forearm (25.2%), wrist (21.2%), and shoulder (10.5%). Motor Vehicle Collisions: Patients struck by a motor vehicle were more likely to be hospitalized (36.0%) compared to those not struck by a vehicle (5.4%). Helmet Use: For patients with skull fractures, 85.7% were not wearing a helmet at the time of injury. Trends: The overall number of bicycle-related fractures decreased significantly over the study period (R2 = 0.899; P<0.001).

Conclusions:

While the national burden of pediatric bicycle-related fractures has decreased, it remains a significant cause of injury, particularly in 10- to 15-year-old males. MV collisions increase the likelihood of hospitalization, and a high percentage of skull fractures occur in children not wearing helmets. Continued advocacy for helmet use and safer riding environments near motor vehicles is crucial.

Relevance:

Limitations:

Perspective:

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