Chest injuries related to surfing

Abstract

Background: Surfing is a popular sport in coastal areas, which can be associated with chest injuries.

Methods: Between 2008 and 2013, 6 patients were referred to our hospital with chest injuries sustained during surfing. Clinical data were collected from their medical records and analyzed retrospectively.

Results: Patient age ranged from 35 to 52 years. Five of the 6 patients were male. Four patients were injured in August, and the other two were injured in September and October. Rib fractures were observed in 3 of the 6 patients. The other 3 patients were diagnosed with chest contusions only. Hemothorax occurred in one patient. No lacerations were observed in any of the 6 patients.

Conclusion: Chest injuries associated with surfing are usually blunt chest injuries; however, they may occasionally be life-threatening.

Keywords: Athletic injuries; Hemothorax; Oceans and seas; Rib fractures; Thoracic wall; Wounds; nonpenetrating.