Electric scooter related injuries among children: a single institutional experience

Abstract

Background: Electric scooter (ES) use has become increasingly popular, particularly among children. However, few studies have characterized pediatric ES-related injuries. We present our experience with children hospitalized due to ES-related trauma. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 103 pediatric patients hospitalized with ES-related injuries between 2018 and 2024. Data collected included patient demographics, type of injury, helmet use, clinical presentation, inpatient management, and follow-up. Results: ES injuries accounted for approximately 3% of all pediatric trauma admissions. The mean age of patients was 11.3 ± 3.7 years, and 84 (81.5%) were male. Helmet use was documented in 55 (62.5%) of cases. No significant trend in patient age or injury incidence was observed over the study period. Orthopedic injuries were the most common (n = 73, 70.9%), followed by general pediatric surgical injuries (n = 11, 10.7%). Twelve patients (11.6%) required admission to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Multiple injuries were observed in 14 patients (13.6%). A significant association was found between head trauma and lack of helmet use OR 23.8 (95% CI 3-200). Conclusion: ES-related injuries, particularly orthopedic trauma, are a common cause of hospitalization in children and are associated with notable morbidity. Helmet use was protective against head injury, underscoring the importance of safety measures.