Characterizing all-terrain vehicle (ATV)-related harm in Saskatchewan children and youths: A retrospective chart review of patients presenting to hospitals in Saskatoon, Canada from 2016 to 2021

Objectives All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are a leading cause of serious injury in children. There are limited Saskatchewan-specific data on these injuries. We aimed to characterize ATV-related injuries in children and youths under the age of 20 in Saskatchewan. Methods A retrospective chart analysis of the 354 patients presenting to hospitals in Saskatoon for ATV-related injuries between 2016 and 2021. Results Incidents commonly occurred in male patients (70%) aged 12 to 16 (45%), riding a quad (as opposed to a dirt bike or other ATV) (36%) between May and August (68%). Fractures were the most common injury (50%), though moderate/severe head injuries (6%) and polytrauma (6%) were documented. The type of injury was significantly associated with the patient's health region of residence, with Saskatoon patients accounting for the highest proportion of fractures (47%), mild head injuries (71%), and soft tissue injuries (62%), while patients from the North and Far North Saskatchewan accounted for the highest proportion of moderate/severe head injuries (76%) and polytrauma (50%). Most incidents involved quads (36%), and these incidents were the most severe (14% moderate/severe head injuries and polytrauma). 48% of patients wore helmets when using four-wheeled ATVs compared with 91% of patients on dirt bikes, and this difference may account for only 2% of dirt bike incidents resulting in moderate/severe head injuries and polytrauma. Conclusions Findings suggest a false perception of safety regarding four-wheeled ATVs. Targeted public education initiatives are needed in Saskatchewan to address ATV-related risks to promote safer riding behaviours and reduce morbidity among children and youths.