Longboard injuries treated at a level 1 pediatric trauma center

Introduction

Recreation on longboards is gaining in popularity. The purpose of this study is to detail the injury patterns, treatment and management of children with longboarding injuries seen at a level 1 pediatric trauma center.

Methods

A retrospective review using our trauma registry from 2006 to 2016 of pediatric patients who sustained injuries while riding a longboard.

Results

Of 12,920 injured children, 64 (0.5%) were treated for injuries that occurred while riding a longboard. Median age was 14.5 years (IQR 13.6, 15.4) and 84% were male. Fifty-one (80%) suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) including 32 intracranial hemorrhages (ICH), 17 concussions, and 31 skull fractures. Seven (11%) were wearing helmets. Three patients required neurosurgical intervention. Extremity fractures were the most common reason for surgery. Ninety-six percent of patients were admitted to the hospital with a median length of stay of 1 day (IQR 1, 3). All children survived to discharge. Compared with skateboard injuries during the same period, TBI, ICH, concussion, and skull fractures were all greater.

Conclusions

TBI ranging from concussion to ICH requiring craniotomy is common in children injured while riding a longboard, and greater than rates after skateboarding injuries. Extremity fracture was the most common reason for operative intervention.

Level of evidence

III.