A descriptive epidemiology of motorcycle injuries in Ontario, 1992-1997

by Mrkonjic, Linda

Reliable descriptive epidemioIogica1 data is a fundamental requirernent for subsequent outcornes research into the effects of administrative or chical changes in the treatment of senously injured crash survivors. The purpose of this thesis is to provide a descriptive epidemiological profile of severe motorcycle injuries in Ontario using information fiom the Ontario Trauma Regstry's (OTR) Comprehensive Data Set (CDS) to aid in the understanding of the mechanisms, severity, treatment and outcome of these injuries. Six hundred and thirty motorcycle riders sustaining injuries resulting in an Injury Seventy Score (ISS) > 12 were identified in the OTR between January 1, 1992 and Decernber 3 1, 1997. A descriptive andysis provides demographic, crash site, lead trauma hospital (LTH) resource, injury and outcome data. Motorcycle crash si~vors are severely injured young males who utilize a significant amount of acute healthcare resources. Musculoskeletal injuries are the rnost common injuries. Descriptive profiles of crash victirns and the resources they utilize are vital if we are to lobby for treating personnel, operating room availability and the fuiancial resources required to provide the appropnate standard of care for these patients.