Alvorlige personskader ved færdselsuheld med indregistrerede motorkøretøjer blandt indbyggere i Odense Kommune 1990-1999

INTRODUCTION: Since 1990, the number of persons treated at the Odense University Hospital for injuries following road traffic with registered motor vehicles has increased. In this study we wanted to examine if the increase included an increase in more severe injuries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included all inhabitants in the Municipality of Odense treated at the Odense University Hospital for more severe injuries (MAIS > or = 3) following road traffic accidents as drivers or passengers in registered motor vehicles during the period January 1st 1990 to December 31st 1999.

RESULTS: 241 persons were included. 177 (73 per cent) were men. The median age was 29.5 years for men and 57 years for women. The total incidence was 1.3 injuries per inhabitant/year. No significant increase was recorded during the period 1990 to 1998. Single accidents without counterpart were the most frequent type of accidents (55 per ent). 66 per cent of the persons were hospitalised and 24 per cent died as a result of their injuries. Injuries localised at the head and neck were most frequent (29 per cent) followed by injuries localised at legs and arms (18 per cent and 23 per cent).

DISCUSSION: The incidence of more severe injuries following road traffic accidents with registered motor vehicles was constant during the period. Accidents involving young men and single accidents were dominating. Prophylactic measures should be aimed at this type of road users.