Citation

Schultz RC, Karlin JV. Proc. Am. Assoc. Automot. Med. Annu. Conf. 1978; 22(2): 245-266.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Markedly increases number of facial injuries from motorcycle accidents are being seen in hospital emergency rooms in North America. These patients are very often victims of multiple system trauma, commonly to a severe degree. Prior to and subsequent to repeal of mandatory helmet use, facial and head injuries have been seen to be significantly more severe and complex; evidenced ultimately by a far greater mortality rate. The most significant factor in reducing the incidence and severity of facial injuries in particular was the development and use of the "full face" helmet. This paper is intended to visually demonstrate the types of soft tissue and bony facial injuries commonly seen resulting from motorcycle accidents, to discuss the significance of these injuries with regard to treatment, and to point out the protection potential provided by various helmet designs. Particular emphasis will be given to a form of soft tissue injury, accidental tattoo, almost unique to motorcycle accidents, and the degree of protection afforded by the "full face" helmet.