The association between restraint system and upper extremity injury after motor vehicle collisions.
OBJECTIVE
This study was designed to investigate the relationship between upper extremity (UE) injuries and occupant restraint systems among front seat occupants who were involved in frontal motor vehicle collisions (MVCs).


METHODS
Case-control.


METHODS
The 1995 through 2002 National Automotive Sampling System (NASS) Crashworthiness Data System (CDS).


METHODS
Subjects were identified from the NASS-CDS. All cases sustained an UE injury with a > or = 2 Abbreviated Injury Scale Score.


RESULTS
Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated comparing risk of UE in 3 mutually exclusive restraint system groups (seatbelt-only, airbag-only, seatbelt-airbag-combined) to the unrestrained group. Data analysis was adjusted for significant occupant, vehicle, and collision characteristics.


RESULTS
Seatbelt-only occupants had a reduced UE injury risk (OR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.22-0.76). Near null associations were found for airbag-only (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.68-1.76) and seatbelt-airbag-combined (OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.56-1.69).


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study suggest that UE injuries may become more common as a result of MVCs as the proportion of airbags in motor vehicles increases.
Goldman
Matthew W
MW
Center for Injury Sciences at University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
MacLennan
Paul A
PA
McGwin
Gerald
G
Lee
Donald H
DH
Sparks
Dierick R
DR
Rue
Loring W
LW
D015998:Abbreviated Injury Scale; D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001134:Arm Injuries / Q000145:classification / Q000209:etiology*; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012622:Seat Belts / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology