Characterization of electric scooter injuries over 27 months at an urban level 1 trauma center

Background: Electric scooters (e-scooters) have become a widespread method of transportation. The purpose of this study is to provide risk stratification tools for modifiable risk factors associated with e-scooter injury morbidity. Methods: Patients at an urban Level 1 Trauma center sustaining e-scooter injuries between November 2017 through March 2020 were identified. Primary outcomes of interest were major trauma, as defined by an Injury Severity Score (ISS) >15, or hospital admission. Results: A total of 442 patients sustained orthopaedic (51%), facial (31%), cranial (13%), and chest/abdominal injuries (4.5%). Rate of helmet use was 2.5%, hospital admission was 40.7%, and intensive care was 3%. Patients with facial injuries were half as likely to sustain major trauma as compared to orthopaedic injuries (p < 0.05). Factors with higher likelihood of hospital admission included age > 40 years (OR 4.20, p < 0.01), alcohol or other substance intoxication (OR 4.14 and 9.87, p < 0.001), loss of consciousness (OR 2.72, p < 0.003), or transport to the hospital by ambulance (OR 4.47, p < 0.001). Conclusions: There is a substantial proportion of major trauma within e-scooter injuries. Modifiable risk factors for hospital admission include use of head protection and substance use while riding e-scooters. (c) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study provides risk stratification tools for modifiable risk factors associated with e-scooter injury morbidity. Factors such as injury type, age, alcohol or substance intoxication, and helmet use were found to be associated with the likelihood of major trauma or hospital admission. Individuals should prioritize using head protection and avoiding substance use while riding e-scooters to reduce the risk of injury.