Epidemiology of craniofacial and spinal injuries in French Rugby union: A report including medical, social, and professional consequences

Objectives: First, to investigate the medico-socio-professional repercussions of non-fatal cranioencephalic and spinal injuries occurring across all levels of play in male and female Rugby Union in France. Second, to determine whether an association existed between the severity of injuries and the circumstances of their occurrence and/or the profiles of the injured players. Third, to gather new epidemiological data regarding the severity and long-term consequences of these injuries in the sport.

Design: National retrospective observational open cohort study conducted using medical expertise files on all injuries registered by the insurer affiliated to the French Rugby Federation.

Methods: We analysed the medical reports of spinal, craniofacial or radicular trauma occurred from 26/08/2011 to 31/01/2018. Data relating to the severity and the circumstances of the injury, and its medical and socio-professional consequences (e.g., ability of players to continue playing rugby and/or professional/scholastic activity, receiving or not financial compensation) were extracted.

Results: 199 cases were identified. The overall incidence rate of injuries was 10.57/100,000 person-years. The median PMI value after consolidation was 6 %. Five cases had a PMI value equivalent or higher than 50 %. 85 % of players were able to return to work/studies whilst 47 % returned to rugby overall. Injury severity did not differ between age groups, genders, performance levels, training/match-play or according to the game situation.

Conclusions: Although rare, craniofacial and spinal injuries in rugby can leave sequelae with substantial repercussions on personal, professional/scholastic and sporting life. Further research into their potential causes and targeted prevention strategies is warranted.