Tibial Shaft Fractures in Football Players
Author Information
Author(s): Chang Winston R, Kapasi Zain, Daisley Susan, Leach William J
Primary Institution: Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Western Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the authors' experience of tibial shaft fractures in football players with existing literature to identify similarities and differences.
Conclusion
The study found a decrease in the incidence of tibial shaft fractures among football players, likely due to the introduction and improvement of shin guards.
Supporting Evidence
- 24 out of 244 tibial fractures treated were football-related.
- 95.8% of patients wore shin guards at the time of injury.
- The most common fracture pattern was AO Type 42A3, occurring in 58.3% of cases.
- The non-union rate was low at 4.2%, with no open injuries reported.
Takeaway
This study looked at broken legs in football players and found that fewer players are getting these injuries now, probably because of better shin guards.
Methodology
A retrospective study of tibial fractures from 1997 to 2001 at a teaching hospital, reviewing patient records and radiographs.
Potential Biases
There may be a selection bias in the treatment methods chosen for the fractures.
Limitations
The study is limited by its retrospective design and the small sample size of football-related fractures.
Participant Demographics
All participants were male, with a mean age of 23 years (range 15 to 29).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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