M Teschner1, F Maser, T Lenarz. 1. Klinik und Poliklinik für Hals-, Nasen-, Ohrenheilkunde, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland. teschner.magnus@mh-hannover.de
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: In addition to trauma, risk factors for the formation of auricular hematomas include the influence of tangential shearing forces upon the auricle. Thus far, no data are available concerning the impact of these forces as caused by the putting on and removal of motorcycle helmets. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In a retrospective observational study, all patients presenting with auricular hematoma and auricular seroma at a German Department of Otolaryngology between January 2005 and March 2011 were analyzed as to a possible connection with the wearing of motorcycle helmets. RESULTS: The proportion of auricular hematoma and seroma patients who were helmet-wearing users of motorcycles, motor scooters or mopeds was 41%. However, none of these patients indicated having put on a protective helmet prior to the occurrence of the hematoma. DISCUSSION: According to our findings, the wearing of motorcycle helmets, with the possible associated influence of tangential shearing forces when putting on or removing the helmet is - despite isolated cases having been described - not a cause of the acute formation of auricular hematomas or seromas. However, the proportion of motorcycle/motor scooter/moped users among patients with these conditions appears to be higher than that for the population as a whole. It may be, therefore, that this does have chronic effects on the auricle.
INTRODUCTION: In addition to trauma, risk factors for the formation of auricular hematomas include the influence of tangential shearing forces upon the auricle. Thus far, no data are available concerning the impact of these forces as caused by the putting on and removal of motorcycle helmets. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In a retrospective observational study, all patients presenting with auricular hematoma and auricular seroma at a German Department of Otolaryngology between January 2005 and March 2011 were analyzed as to a possible connection with the wearing of motorcycle helmets. RESULTS: The proportion of auricular hematoma and seromapatients who were helmet-wearing users of motorcycles, motor scooters or mopeds was 41%. However, none of these patients indicated having put on a protective helmet prior to the occurrence of the hematoma. DISCUSSION: According to our findings, the wearing of motorcycle helmets, with the possible associated influence of tangential shearing forces when putting on or removing the helmet is - despite isolated cases having been described - not a cause of the acute formation of auricular hematomas or seromas. However, the proportion of motorcycle/motor scooter/moped users among patients with these conditions appears to be higher than that for the population as a whole. It may be, therefore, that this does have chronic effects on the auricle.
Authors: William C Giles; Kenneth C Iverson; Jonathan D King; Frank C Hill; Edward A Woody; Anna L Bouknight Journal: Laryngoscope Date: 2007-12 Impact factor: 3.325