@article{ref1,
title="Life-altering outcomes after lower extremity injury sustained in motor vehicle crashes",
journal="Journal of trauma",
year="2004",
author="Read, Kathleen M. and Kufera, Joseph A. and Dischinger, Patricia C. and Kerns, Timothy J. and Ho, Shiu M. and Burgess, Andrew R. and Burch, Cynthia A.",
volume="57",
number="4",
pages="815-823",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Lower extremity injuries (LEIs) sustained in vehicular crashes result in physical problems and unexpected psychosocial consequences. Their significance is diminished by low Abbreviated Injury Scale scores. METHODS: Drivers who sustained LEIs were identified as part of the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) and interviewed during hospitalization, at 6 months, and at 1 year. All were occupants of newer vehicles with seatbelts and airbags. RESULTS: Sixty-five patients were followed for 1 year. Injuries included mild brain injury (43%), ankle/foot fractures (55%), and bilateral injuries (37%). One year post-injury, 46% reported limitations in walking and 22% with ankle/foot fractures were unable to return to work. Depression (39%), cognitive problems (32%), and post-traumatic stress disorder (18%) were significant in the mild brain injury group. CONCLUSIONS: Long-lasting physical and psychological burdens may impede recovery and alter the lifestyle of patients with LEI. These issues need to be addressed by trauma center personnel.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0022-5282",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}