Young bikers, particularly those using motorcycles or bicycles, are often at higher risk for trauma-related injuries due to factors like inexperience, risky behavior, and lack of proper protective gear. When these individuals land in trauma centers, the most common injuries include:
1.Head Injuries: Lack of helmets or inadequate helmet usage leads to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, or skull fractures.
2.Fractures: Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, or collarbone, are common when bikers are thrown from their bikes or involved in collisions.
3.Spinal Injuries: Severe accidents can result in damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis or long-term disability.
4. Internal Injuries: Impact from falls or collisions can cause damage to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding or punctured lungs.
5.Road Rash: Skin abrasions from sliding on the pavement, which can range from mild to severe, often requiring skin grafts.
The severity of these injuries often depends on the speed of the accident, whether the rider was wearing protective gear, and the environment in which the accident occurred. Trauma centers typically focus on stabilizing the patient, preventing further injury, and initiating the necessary surgical or non-surgical treatment.
Preventive measures, such as wearing helmets, reflective clothing, and protective gear, as well as following traffic laws, can greatly reduce the risk of severe injuries.
By Dr. Romil Rathi, MBBS, MS Orthopaedics, Wockhardt Hospital, Nagpur