Work

Equestrian Trauma in an Urban Environment: A Retrospective Analysis in a Level I Trauma Center

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Equestrian trauma is recognized as a high-risk injury mechanism with the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Although horse-related injuries are more frequently seen in a rural environment, they can also occur in urban settings. Urban physicians should be mindful of these potential cases. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on all patients treated at Nassau University Medical Center, East Meadow, New York, for equestrian-related trauma from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2024. RESULTS: Twenty-nine equestrian trauma patients ages 10-70 were included, with injuries observed in all six Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) body regions. Admission was required in 93% of patients. Intensive care unit (ICU) admission was required in 41% of the cases. Head and extremity injuries were the most common reasons for admission. Polytrauma patients were seen both in patients who fell from a horse and those who were kicked by a horse. The mean Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 6.9 and 11.8, respectively. CONCLUSION: Both falling from a horse and being kicked by a horse have been shown to have a high risk of serious morbidity. Equestrian trauma can occur in urban environments. Urban physicians should be aware of injury patterns in equestrian trauma and maintain a high index of suspicion for serious injuries, as most patients will require admission and intervention.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.81609

Authors: Elizabeth Swezey, Elisa Szydziak, L. D. George Angus, Vishes Mehta, Sara Cardozo-Stolberg

Institution: Nassau University Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Trauma and Emergency Care Studies

Subfield: Emergency Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4409087714