Similarities Between Large Animal-Related and Motor Vehicle Crash-Related Injuries.

This research examines and compares the injuries and management processes related to Large Animal-Related Injuries (LARIs) and Motor Vehicle Crashes (MVCs) in a certain region of the United States, revealing similarities between the two.

Research Methodology

• The study uses a 15-years retrospective examination, comparing cases of LARIs to equivalent MVC cases. The comparison standard was based on Injury Severity Score (ISS), individuals’ age, and their gender.
• The statistical relevance of results were assessed and differences were deemed significant if they occurred at probabilities less than 0.05 (P < .05).

Results of Research

• The sample had 156 LARI cases, the majority (87%) of which involved horses. Bulls accounted for 8% and the rest involved deer, mules, bison, cows, and rams.
• The average age of patients in the LARI group was 42 years, with an ISS of 7, and 61% of the group were females.
• In comparing hospital stay duration and blood alcohol concentration, MVC patients had higher levels for both (5±5 days and 35±84 g/L respectively) when compared with the LARI group (4±3 days and 3±20 g/L respectively).
• There were no significant variances in the types of injuries suffered between the two groups, however, additional Radiology Studies (RS) were ordered more frequently for MVC patients (9±6 vs 7±5)
• The study found that LARI patients more often needed transportation from rural locations (39%) and on average traveled further distances (40±32 km versus 24±29 km) to a trauma center than MVC patients.

Conclusion

The research found that despite the different circumstances leading to the injuries, LARI cases presented similar injury patterns to those seen in MVCs, though fewer additional Radiological Studies were required. Furthermore, the accidents typically occurred further from the trauma center and required transportation from more remote, rural areas. The similarities in injuries and management processes between LARI and MVC suggest the potential value of applying similar medical assessment and treatment strategies for both.