Using linked motor vehicle crash and hospital discharge records from the Wisconsin CODES (Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System) project, the incidence and risk factors for serious lower extremity injuries for occupants of passenger vehicles were estimated. Serious lower extremity injuries include fractures, dislocations and crushing injuries of the bones and joints of the lower extremity. The incidence rate for serious lower extremity injuries was 200 per 100,000 occupants of passenger vehicles involved in crashes. Of those occupants of passenger vehicles who were hospitalised following motor vehicle crash injuries, 16% were diagnosed with a serious lower extremity injury. Using logistic regression models, risk factors for both front seat passengers and drivers include crashes with frontal components, higher posted speed limits, smaller cars and vans. Age, gender and belt-use could only be included in model for drivers, showing increased risk to female drivers, especially those over 60, and that there was a protective effect for seat belt use. Estimates of risks for specific injuries (including foot and ankle fractures) were also calculated. (A)
Samenvatting