Pediatric trauma associated with all-terrain vehicles.

The frequency of injuries secondary to use of all-terrain vehicles (ATV) is increasing at an alarming rate, and these injuries are usually multiple and severe. Between January 1, 1983, and February 28, 1985, 415 pediatric patients were admitted to the University of Virginia Hospital for care of injuries secondary to trauma; 66 of these patients required intensive care. Of the 415 patients, 12 were injured secondary to ATV use, and four of these required intensive care. The average age was 12 years (range 2 to 16 years), and the average hospital stay was 20 days. Injuries included five closed head injuries, two associated with a basilar skull fracture requiring intracranial pressure monitoring; five long bone fractures, two requiring open reduction and internal fixation; two small bone fractures; two splenic ruptures; two liver lacerations, one of them requiring laparotomy; and one renal hematoma. One patient has required long-term rehabilitation for neurologic deficits. Physicians and the public should be aware of the injury potential of these vehicles and should advocate legislation promoting helmet laws and high safety standards for ATV users.