Epidemiology of watersport related traumatic spinal cord injuries in New Zealand (2007-2021)

Background: To investigate the incidence, demographic characteristics, etiologies, surgical interventions, hospital stays, and neurologic outcomes associated with watersport-related traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) in New Zealand.

Methods: Retrospective study collected data from New Zealand's two spinal rehabilitation units, the Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit (ASRU) and the Burwood Spinal Unit (BSU). It included adults aged over 16 years, between January 2007 and December 2021 with new TSCI secondary to traumatic watersport activities. Variables assessed include type of water-related activity, length of hospital stay, surgical intervention and neurologic outcomes, categorized by the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale.

Results: Data from 80 patients were analysed. The mean annual incidence of water-related TSCI was 1.141 per 1,000,000 per year, predominantly affecting males (68 males vs. 12 females) with a mean age of 31.1 years. Maori had the highest incidence rate (2.02 per 1,000,000). Diving was the leading cause of TSCI (57 cases), particularly from pool and wharf accidents. Most injuries occurred between December and March. Surgical intervention was performed in 89% of cases. The average hospital stay was 93.65 days, with the cervical region being the most commonly affected (85.1%).

Conclusions: Watersport-related TSCI in New Zealand predominantly affects the young, Maori and males, with cervical spine injuries, particularly from diving accidents being most common. Seasonal trends suggest a need for targeted prevention during warmer months. These findings provide insights for public health initiatives, clinical management and the development of prevention strategies.