Injury patterns related to ultralight aircraft crashes

Abstract 

Purpose

Flying ultralight aircraft is a popular and growing form of recreation. However, there is considerable risk involved in this activity. This study was undertaken to catalogue the injury patterns, surgical procedures, and complications of patients involved in ultralight crashes in southwest Michigan.

Basic procedures

The trauma registry at Bronson Methodist Hospital was used to retrospectively identify all ultralight crashes between 1983 and 2006. All patients who survived to the hospital were included in the study.

Main findings

Seventeen patients were identified, all males with a mean age of 48.5 years. Mean injury severity score was 23, with all patients sustaining multiple injuries. Mortality was 17%. Lower extremity fractures were most common, followed by head/neck/facial injuries. Orthopedic extremity procedures were most commonly performed.

Principal conclusions

Ultralight crashes result in complex high-energy injury patterns. These patients are likely to require the resources of designated trauma centers. Increased oversight may help prevent ultralight-related injuries.