Lawn mower injuries of the pediatric foot and ankle: observations on prevention and management

Abstract

We reviewed 32 children with lower extremity injuries caused by power lawn mowers. Functional outcome of 21 patients was evaluated. Anatomical injury patterns provide some guidelines in management and prediction of functional outcome. Consistently, the most severe injuries result from ride-on mowers and wounds to the posterior/plantar foot and ankle. Our experience with pediatric foot and ankle lawn mower injuries permits recommendations for maximum functional outcome with minimal intervention. Public awareness and mower safety devices may be required to decrease the rate of accidents in the future.