An analysis of e-scooter-related trauma in Ireland: an update.

Abstract

Aims: Electronic (E)-scooters have become increasingly common in Ireland. Our group was the first to publish an analysis of injuries related to these devices in Ireland in 2021. Since then, the use of e-scooters has increased significantly. The primary aim of this study was to re-analyse the trend in scooter-related trauma 4 years later.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis over the same time period as our previous study (13 months). Seventy-six patients with e-scooter-related trauma in our emergency department (ED) were identified between June 2023 and July 2024. Medical records and patient imaging were reviewed. Injury severity score (ISS) was calculated, and results were compared to our previous study.

Results: There was an increase from 22 to 76 patients presenting to our ED with an e-scooter-related injury over a 13-month period. The number of patients presenting with fractures has risen from 15 to 34 (45%). Twenty-four per cent of ED attendees required hospital admission, and 13 patients underwent surgical intervention. The average ISS was 4.3, and helmet use has decreased significantly from 40% to 8%.

Conclusions: E-scooters remain to be a key contributor to emergency department presentations and complex orthopaedic injuries. The majority of patients require radiological investigation and specialist follow-up, with many needing surgical fixation. The effects of such injuries can have severe long-term consequences for patients and place financial constraints on our health system. With the rollout of e-scooter rental schemes and infrequent helmet use, one can expect the resulting trauma will continue to rise.