Injuries due to motorcycle accidents amongst Saudi women. Are we waiting for a new epidemic?
Al-Habdan, I.M.; Sadat-Ali, M.; Al-Othman, A.A.; Al-Awad, N.I.
Saudi Medical Journal 20(6): 458-460
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0379-5284 PMID: 27632655 Document Number: 510611
Objectives: To study the injuries sustained by Saudi Arabian females due to motorcycle accidents. Methods: Retrospective review of 27 patients seen at King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar. Demographic data which was analyzed was age, type of injury sustained, operations performed and duration of the hospital stay. Results: The mean age was 19.7 years SD+-4.48 (14 - 31 years). They sustained 45 fractures, 1 dislocation and 4 blunt abdominal injuries. Sixteen (59%) required admission and 10 (37%) underwent surgical fixation of fractures. The mean hospital stay was 15.7 days (9-41 days). Conclusion: Motorcycle accidents are becoming more common among Saudi females who drive the motorcycles for recreation. These accidents occur due to no prior driving experience and driving at night with poor or no illumination. We believe ways need to be found to prevent such injuries before it is too late.