Characteristics and outcomes of electric bicycle-related canalicular lacerations in a tertiary hospital in North China.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to describe the demographics and outcomes of patients treated for electric bicycle (EB)-related canalicular lacerations.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 116 patients who had suffered EB-related canalicular lacerations, and got referral to Hebei Eye Hospital in North China from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2019. The demographic data including age, gender, injury laterality, injury location, associated injuries and surgical repair results were all recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 116 patients who had EB-related canalicular lacerations and met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. The average age of the 116 patients was 46.9 years (ranging from 15 to 79 years), including 74 (63.8%) males and 42 (36.2%) females. Among the patients, 108 (93.1%) were farm workers, 3 (2.6%) were industrial workers, 5 (4.3%) were students. The most frequency associated injuries was fracture, and a total of 57 (49.1%) fractures were discovered, and the most common fractures sites were medial orbital wall, accounting for 25 (21.6%) patients. The functional success rate was 87.1%. High speeding was identified as the primary cause of injuries, followed by using motor vehicle lanes, carrying goods or children while riding the EB, failing to obey traffic signals, helmet wearing and evenings during rush hour.

CONCLUSION

EB-related canalicular lacerations may lead to severe consequences. Therefore, to improve safety awareness, put forward policies and suggestions, strengthen the publicity of laws and regulations, and regulate the use of electric bicycles, in order to improve safety and prevent injuries.