The epidemiology, trends and outcomes of off-road vehicle injuries [ORIVs]: An analysis of national trauma registry data

Introduction

Off-road vehicle use in the Arabian Gulf is wholly recreational and a cause of preventable death and disability. Current and up-to-date epidemiologic information on this mechanism of injury is needed to inform injury prevention programs.

Objective

To analyze the epidemiology, trends and outcomes of ORVI patients treated at a national trauma center.

Materials and Methods

The national trauma registry was queried for epidemiologic and outcome data on all patients with moderate to severe ORVIs, seeking hospitalization and/or care at the Hamad Trauma Center from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2019.

Results

There were 725 ORVIs during the study period, 80% were male, 20% were adolescents [12-15 years]. All-terrain vehicles [ATV] crashes made up 88% and 12% from motor vehicle crashes [MVC]. MVC were almost entirely rollovers, victims were older, almost entirely male and had a higher ISS and mortality. There was a 61% increase in ORVIs, ATVs increased by 46% and MVCs increased by 333%, during the study period, most noted in the 12-15 year olds and females.

Conclusion

ORVIs are increasing with the most marked increase in MVCs. ATVs safety must be emphasized for the younger population, adolescents and females. Off-road MVC safety must emphasize proven efforts to prevent rollovers and focused on an older, male population.

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