Foot and ankle injuries in motor vehicle accidents

Background: We studied foot and ankle (F/A) injuries that occurred in motor vehicle accidents treated in a Level 1 trauma center. Methods: The records of F/A injuries of 2248 consecutive orthopedic patient s were reviewed to find foot and ankle injuries. Results: Pilon fractures were common. Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) occupant s with F/A injuries had a higher injury Severity Score than those without ( 17.9 vs. 11.6, p < . 001). MVA F/A injury risk was higher without restraint [relative risk ratio (rrr) 1.68, p < .0032] than with restraint except for air bagged drivers who were similar to unrestrained drivers (rrr 1.18, p > .05, NS). Conclusion: Patients with F/A injuries may have serious associated injuries . Air bags may not protect feet.