Efficiency of Helmet and Protective Clothing Use on Outcomes of Patients with Motorcycle Accidents

Abstract

Aim: Motor vehicle accidents are a growing public health problem, particularly in developing countries. In this study, we aimed to clarify the role of helmet and protective clothing in prevention from injuries to the head, trunk, and extremities in motorcycle accidents. Material and Method: Patients over 18 years old of both genders who were admitted to the Emergency Department (ED) of Hitit University Corum Training and Research Hospital due to a motorcycle accident between January 1, 2010 and July 1, 2015 were included in this retrospective study. We used their medical records to identify the location of injury, radiographic findings, use of helmet and protective clothing, and whether the patient was consulted, hospitalized, or underwent surgery. Then, patients were divided into two subgroups. Group I: Patients without helmet and protective clothing. Group II: Patients with helmet and protective clothing. The groups were compared statistically. Results: One hundred and twenty patients admitted to our ED due to a motorcycle accident were included in the study. It was determined that 73 (60.8%) of the patients had not used a helmet or protective clothing, whereas 47 (38.2%) had used a helmet or protective clothing. Neurosurgery was found to be the most frequently consulted speciality. When the groups were compared, it was found that 7 of 8 patients with traumatic brain injury were in Group I. This finding was statistically significant. The rate of alcohol intake before the accident of Group 1 (15.1%) was statistically significantly higher than in Group II (6.4%). When the groups were compared according to age, gender, spinal injuries, long bone fractures, and intraabdominal organ injuries, there was not any statistical significance. Discussion: Helmet use is found to be useful to prevent head injuries in motorcycle accidents. However, protective clothing does not contribute to prevention from injuries to the trunk and extremities. Strict laws for helmet use, intake of alcohol prior to driving a motorcycle, and education of motorcyclists may help reduce morbidity and mortality in motorcycle accidents.