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RACS ASC 2026
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Lawnmower Associated Injuries in Children: A Multicenter Retrospective
Poster

Poster

Disciplines

Trauma Surgery

Presentation Description

Institution: Queensland Childrens Hospital - QLD, Australia

Background: Lawnmower associated injuries are often associated with significant and devastating injuries. This applies particularly to the paediatric population where entire families are impacted by disastrous accidents and significant long-term disability may result despite complex reconstructive procedures. This study aims to review the extent of paediatric lawnmower associated injuries in Queensland and draw attention to the importance of child safety around lawnmowers. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective case series capturing data from 2001 to 2022, from multiple tertiary hospitals located in Queensland, Australia. All lawnmower associated injuries occurring in children were included in the study. Patient demographic information and length of stay (LOS) was recorded and compared. Univariate statistical analysis was performed. Results: A total of 101 patients were included in the study (n = 101). The most common mechanism of injury was the child being a bystander to a lawnmower that was in use. The lower limb was the most injured anatomical side (55%) followed by the upper limb (29%), head (12%) and torso (4%). LOS was significantly greater in those with lower limb injuries (p<0.001). Longer LOS was also significantly associated with ride-on lawnmower injuries (compared to push lawnmower) as were injuries occurring in remote areas of Queensland (P<0.001). Conclusion: Lawnmower associated injuries in children are associated with significant morbidity and extremely traumatic to both the child and their family. These injuries are often preventable, and we think the importance of child safety surrounding lawnmower usage should be emphasized to Australian communities.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Jasmine Zhang - , Dr Ricky Bilbao - , Dr Yun Phua -