Abstract
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Abstract: In the drive towards carbon neutrality, E-scooter UK-wide trials have been introduced by the Department of Transport, including a 12-month trial in Bristol from October 2020. The increasing usage of E-scooters has resulted in a surge of traumatic injuries associated with this new mode of transportation. The demographics and trends of injury patterns within the UK are yet to be reported. We report an overview of the experience from our Trauma and Orthopaedics (T+O) Department, set in a Trauma Unit in Bristol, from January 2021 to June 2021.
During this period, we were referred 53 patients with E-scooter related injuries. Typically, patients were between 20 to 40 years old, with an average age of 31. Alcohol was a notable risk factor for injury, 26% of those referred to our department being under the influence of alcohol at the time of their injury. 73% of the injuries sustained were to the upper limbs, 62% being right sided, with hand and elbow injuries the most common. 20% of all patients referred required operative management, with an average length of stay in hospital of 2.5 days.
We conclude that the economic burden of E-scooter related injuries to a T+O department can be significant. Most patients require imaging, splints and multiple follow up appointments, in addition to those requiring hospital admission and operative management. Our findings highlight the impact this novel form of transport has upon T+O departments and the injury patterns sustained, informing future service provision and public health awareness.
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