Mechanical bull injuries in pediatric patients: a call for safety regulations

Abstract

Mechanical bull riding, a largely unregulated activity, poses a significant injury risk to children. Thirty-five pediatric patients (<18 y.o.) presented to a level I trauma center after a mechanical bull-related injury. A direct hit by the device was the most common mechanism of injury (71.4%). Traumatic brain injuries were reported in 65.7%. Long-term complications were reported in six of 19 patients followed up. There was a significantly higher number of depressed skull fractures in male patients (p =.018).These findings highlight the potential dangers of mechanical bull riding for children, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and additional safety regulations.