Young Bikers and Trauma in India: An Orthopaedic Perspective : By Dr. Swapnil Gadage, MBBS, MS, Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospital, Nagpur

Road accidents remain a leading cause of death among young people in India, particularly those between the ages of 18 and 30. In 2022, India recorded over 1.5 lakh fatalities due to road accidents, with two-wheelers making up a significant share of these numbers. Young bikers are at high risk due to factors like speeding, lack of protective gear, and risky manoeuvres. While fatalities are a tragic outcome, many survivors face severe orthopaedic injuries that alter their lives permanently.

Orthopaedic Challenges Faced by Young Bikers

Orthopaedic injuries are common among young bikers involved in road accidents. Dr. Swapnil Gadge has observed a range of trauma cases, including fractures, dislocations, and spinal injuries. Below are some of the most frequent injuries seen in such cases:

1. Fractures:

Fractures, especially of the limbs, are among the most common injuries. A broken arm or leg can require extensive surgical intervention, including the use of plates, screws, or rods to ensure proper healing. According to the Indian Orthopaedic Association, nearly 60% of trauma cases among bikers involve fractures, with the tibia, femur, and forearm bones being the most frequently affected. Long-term effects can include mobility issues, chronic pain, and arthritis, which can impact a person's ability to resume their daily activities.

2. Dislocations and Ligament Injuries:

Dislocations, particularly of the shoulder and knee, are common among bikers who lose control and fall during an accident. Ligament injuries, like ACL tears in the knee, can significantly hinder mobility. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery revealed that about 30% of accident cases in young bikers involved severe ligament damage that required surgical repair. The recovery process for these injuries is often prolonged, involving months of rehabilitation and physiotherapy to regain strength and function.

3. Spinal Cord Injuries:

While less common, spinal cord injuries have devastating effects. They can lead to partial or complete paralysis, severely impacting the individual's quality of life. Dr. Swapnil Gadge has treated numerous cases where timely surgical intervention has helped mitigate the extent of paralysis, though recovery remains a slow and challenging process.

The Role of Early Intervention and Treatment

The golden hour—the first hour after an accident—is critical in managing trauma cases. Prompt medical intervention can greatly improve outcomes, especially in orthopaedic injuries. Dr. Swapnil Gadge emphasises the importance of immediate stabilisation of fractures, reducing the risk of complications like infection or improper healing. Dr Gadge follows a protocol that prioritises quick imaging, such as X-rays and CT scans, to assess the severity of injuries and plan the surgical approach accordingly.

For instance, in the case of compound fractures, where the bone pierces the skin, early surgical debridement and fixation are crucial to prevent infection and ensure proper bone alignment. Such timely interventions have been shown to reduce recovery time by up to 30%, allowing patients to return to their normal activities sooner.

Rehabilitation: A Critical Component of Recovery

Orthopaedic trauma management does not end with surgery; rehabilitation plays an equally important role. A multidisciplinary team led by physiotherapists collaborates with orthopaedic surgeons to develop personalised recovery plans. These plans include exercises to restore joint mobility, strengthen muscles, and gradually improve balance.

Dr. Swapnil Gadge notes that young bikers often face challenges during the rehabilitation phase due to impatience and a desire to resume their active lifestyles. It is crucial for patients to follow their rehabilitation plans diligently to avoid complications like muscle atrophy or joint stiffness. 

The Importance of Preventive Measures

While the focus often lies on treating injuries, prevention is equally important in reducing the incidence of trauma among young bikers. Dr. Swapnil Gadge advocates for the use of protective gear, such as helmets, knee guards, and elbow pads, which can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in case of accidents. A report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) found that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of severe head injury by 70% and fatality by 42%. Moreover, public awareness campaigns targeting young riders about the dangers of speeding and reckless driving can go a long way in changing behaviours.