Athletic Trainers Research Articles

Tech‐driven excellence: A quantitative analysis of cutting‐edge technology impact on professional sports training

AbstractAimIn recent years, the integration of cutting‐edge technology into professional sports training (ST) has revolutionized the way athletes prepare for competition. The study aims to quantitatively analyse the impact of cutting‐edge technology on enhancing performance, efficiency, and outcomes in professional ST programs.PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate how advanced technologies influence training effectiveness in professional sports, with a focus on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and overall athlete development.MethodsThis study utilized a quantitative descriptive research design to assess technology's impact on ST. A sample of 450 sports professionals, selected through purposive sampling, completed structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using SPSS to identify correlations between technology use and training outcomes.FindingsThe research findings indicate that athletes utilizing virtual reality (VR), AR, and wearable technology (WT) in their training exhibit significant improvements in performance metrics (PM) and a reduction in injury risks compared to those relying on traditional training methods.ResultThe study results demonstrate that technology‐assisted training improves cognitive skills (CS), decision‐making, and psychological aspects like motivation and focus. Additionally, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) enable more effective, personalized coaching strategies, enhancing overall training outcomes.OriginalityThis study's contribution lies in its novel approach, demonstrating virtual and augmented reality, wearable tech, and advanced analytics enhance ST by improving performance, CS, and resilience, while also reducing injuries and speeding up recovery.ConclusionThis research significantly advances the sports science domain by offering empirical evidence supporting technology integration, filling prevalent gaps in the current literature.

The impact of talent detection on increasing the number of children participating in sports

Sports talent detection is an attempt to find children who have the potential to become athletes but are not currently involved in sports through a series of tests. The aim of this research is to determine the characteristics of the distribution of children's sports talents in Payakumbuh City, West Sumatra Province. From this research, information was obtained on the anthropometric profile, physical abilities and movement coordination of each child. Apart from that, it was found that there were differences in the movement coordination abilities of children who had not and had participated in sports (training in clubs) after sports talent detection was carried out. This research involved 750 children (486 boys, 264 girls) aged 7-12 years in Payakumbuh City, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The talent detection instrument used in this research is the Sekora TID which was adopted from the SportKompas test battery. To see the impact of implementing talent detection, researchers conducted a survey using a Google form which was distributed to all test participants. Surveys were conducted to monitor children who had participated in sports as confirmed by teachers and parents. The results of the study provide information that there is no significant difference in the anthropometry of men and women (p>0.05), but a significant difference is seen in age (p<0.05). Significant differences were also found in motor coordination elements based on age and gender (p<0.05). Physical performance elements also show significant differences in age and gender (p<0.05). The results of this research will be used as a first step in implementing a sports talent identification system as part of LTAD.

Effects of a play-based approach on psychosocial variables in federated long- and middle-distance athletes

IntroductionConsidering the theory of self-determination and its relationship with human motivation and the play-based approach (PBA), a training program is implemented in young middle and long-distance running athletes with play activities (simple tasks with rules in a ludic mood). The objectives were (1) to analyze the effects of a PBA on the autonomy support interpersonal teaching style (ASITS) perceived by athletes, the psychological variables of satisfaction of basic psychological needs, motivation, enjoyment and intention to continue practicing athletics and depending on sex, and (2) know the athletes' perception of this methodology after the intervention.MethodQuasi- experimental design with a sample of 50 athletes (27 women and 23 men) with 17.22 average of age and federated at the regional level.InstrumentsAutonomy Support Scale (ASS), Psychological Need Satisfaction in Exercise Scale (PNSE), Behavior Regulation in Sports Questionnaire (BRSQ), Measure of Intention to be Physically Active (MIPA) and Intrinsic Satisfaction in Sports Questionnaire (ISSQ).ResultsSignificant changes were identified in favor of the experimental group compared to the control group in ASITS and autonomous motivation. Over time, only the experimental group showed positive changes in the ASITS variable, self-determination index, autonomous motivation, and intention to continue practicing athletics. The women in the experimental group presented higher values in the self-determination index, autonomous motivation and intention to continue practicing athletics, while the women in the control group only in the ASITS variable in the pre-test. The young people who practiced playing during the warm-up reported high levels of fun and motivation, and interest in the activity, as well as concern about being prepared for the main part of the session.DiscussionIt is suggested to athletic trainers to use a PBA in athletics groups at a regional level to promote an ASITS and its positive consequences at both a psychosocial and cognitive level, although new studies are required, and of longer duration to be able to contrast these findings and their effects on athletic performance.

An empirical examination of virtual reality technology’s integration in soccer instruction and training

ABSTRACT Virtual reality (VR) technology has become more widely used in sports training and has gradually realised its potential in soccer instruction and training. Based on virtual reality technology, this study investigates the potential for its integrated use in soccer instruction and examines its influence on training. By examining the state of simulation technology, it is discovered that the technology is primarily used in high-precision domains and has not been completely incorporated into soccer tactical training, particularly in terms of ineffective use for passing concepts and route selection. Furthermore, traditional soccer training depends on on-the-ground instruction, which is constrained by time, location, and weather, making it challenging to adapt quickly to shifting tactical requirements. Using simulation technology and overall soccer offence and defence training as the research object, this paper creates a virtual soccer training system. It conducts experiments to confirm its efficacy in enhancing players’ tactical awareness, passing decision-making, and on-field cooperation. Furthermore, this system offers features like player positions created randomly, brush marking and visual and tactical analysis to assist coaches and players in making tactical adjustments and feedback in real time. The outcomes demonstrate that the young players are all significantly enhanced by this virtual reality training method.

Multisensor‐Driven Lightweight Networks for Intelligent Sports Training System: Design and Research

ABSTRACTEdge computing and multisensor integration have revolutionized sports training technologies, yet many existing systems remain computationally intensive and complex for everyday use. This study introduces an efficient and user‐friendly intelligent sports training system that leverages edge‐based multisensor data processing with lightweight neural networks. The system utilizes low‐latency activity and real‐time pose estimation data, powered by a modified MobileNetV2 model, to generate personalized training plans through reinforcement learning. Tests show that the system matches the accuracy of more complex models while significantly reducing computational needs. Compression techniques further enhance efficiency with minimal accuracy loss. User studies revealed notable improvements in fitness levels and adherence compared to traditional methods. The system adapts to real‐time user performance, offering feedback and dynamically adjusting plans, with low energy consumption across mobile devices. This research shows that our developed system, which integrates multisensors and artificial intelligence, can make personalized sports training more accessible.

Mental training for college athletes

This paper examines the development of mental training in sports, emphasizing the differences between China and other countries in terms of training methods and research approaches. The study employs a literature review method to analyse existing domestic research and draw conclusions. Numerous studies have shown that mental training is crucial for enhancing athletes' performance. By investigating the definitions of mental training in various regions and assessing the current state of mental training in Chinese universities, this study highlights these differences. The findings reveal several gaps between China and other countries in this field: 1) China's research on mental training started relatively late, with limitations in both content and depth; 2) deficiencies in research design, including limited scope in subject and sample selection, unclear operational definitions of variables, and insufficient control of extraneous variables; and 3) a lack of empirical research and methodological innovation in mental training. These findings suggest that China needs to expand and enhance research in mental training, with a particular focus on empirical studies and methodological innovation, to bridge the gap with other countries.

Enhancing karate skill performance through virtual visuals and artificial intelligence techniques

In this paper, we explore the integration of virtual visuals and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to enhance Karate skill performance, specifically focusing on circular strike skills. Traditional Karate training often lacks the diversity of sparring partners and the precise, real-time feedback necessary for optimal skill development. We propose a Mixed Interpretation Diagram (MID) as a display to present performance features, facilitating visual imagery and best practice simulations. By employing virtual sketches and intelligent sense rules, trainees can simulate optimal actions and enhance critical Karate skills. Additionally, we consider the use of Konashi intelligent bands and Reformer indoor screens to monitor muscular fatigue, providing early warnings for recovery tasks. The adoption of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies in sports training offers a new vision for enhancing human skill performance. Our v-sports system integrates state-of-the-art AI, human motion analysis, and virtual visual generation techniques, enabling personalized coaching for Karate practitioners. This paper addresses two key research problems: creating meaningful and intuitive body-movement-based presentations of self-image to optimize training, and generating efficient, professional models for guiding without a coach. We present a timeline and percentage breakdown for the development of an AI-assisted Karate training program. This program includes research on circular strike skills, virtual vision setup, AI model training, performance metrics implementation, and comprehensive system testing. The use of VR and AI in Karate training can significantly improve technique accuracy, movement efficiency, training engagement, and personalized feedback, ultimately enhancing overall performance and reducing injury risks. Our findings suggest that integrating VR and AI technologies into Karate training provides a more engaging, effective, and accessible training experience. Future research should focus on improving the accuracy and affordability of these technologies, integrating virtual and real-world training, and ensuring user safety.

Athletic Trainers’ Perceived Knowledge and Competence on Sexual Assault Management

One in five college females will experience sexual assault (SA), and the athletic environment increases the risk of SA occurring. Athletic trainers (ATs) must be knowledgeable and competent to handle reports, but the effectiveness of the institutional sexual violence prevention (SVP) training ATs receive is unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess how ATs’ perceived knowledge and competence in managing student-athlete reports of SA differ across training formats and facilitators. Collegiate ATs (N = 283) completed a survey assessing formal psychosocial clinical education, institutional SVP training format and facilitator, and perceived knowledge and competence on SA policies and management. Two one-way MANOVAs compared perceived knowledge and competence by format and facilitator. Overall, any form of SVP training was associated with greater perceived knowledge and competence than no training. Regarding format, ATs who received face-to-face or a combination of face-to-face and online training felt most knowledgeable and competent. Regarding facilitators, ATs whose SVP training was led by an external, professional facilitator or multiple facilitators felt more knowledgeable than ATs whose program was self-guided or led by a staff member of the institution. Lastly, ATs who had been certified longer reported feeling more knowledgeable than recently certified ATs. A face-to-face format with an external or professional facilitator or a combination of formats and facilitators appears to be the optimal method for ATs’ SVP training. Whether this translates to improved care for the athlete who experiences SA is still unknown and requires further research.

Biomechanical analysis and optimization of sports action training in virtual reality (VR) environment

Over the past years, virtual reality (VR) has become much more popular. VR combines several technologies to provide an immersive digital environment. This environment allows users to engage and react to their actions, creating a virtual world where users feel more present. In biomechanical analysis, researchers analyze the physical characteristics of biological tissues and model the relationship between tissue form and function. Utilizing VR headsets, motion-tracking apparatus, and realistic virtual worlds that simulate actual sports situations are all part of virtual sports training. VR lacks realism, which can be related to the absence of sensory input, making it unsuitable for training fine motor skills. The research aims to perform biomechanical analysis and optimize sports action training inside a VR setting. A mountain gazelle optimizer fine-tuned adjustable convolution neural network (MGO-ACNN) is proposed to examine the joint angle selections utilized by sports action. In this study, human motion image data are utilized to capture various angles of the training action. The data was preprocessed using a Wiener Filter (WF) for the obtained data. Analyzing spatial frequency and orientation in images for feature extraction is accomplished using the Gabor Filter (GF). This approach incorporates VR simulations to provide a more regulated and immersive setting for joint angle analysis during sports training. The proposed method is implemented using Python software. The result demonstrated by the proposed method significantly outperforms the existing algorithms. The performance parameters for accuracy (99.73%), precision (99.75%), recall (99.73%), and F1-score (99.72%) are assessed in this study. The VR experiments indicate that optimal sports preparation involves a sports action while maintaining a batting speed consistent with the joint to lower the center of gravity. This research highlights the more effective, personalized sports training system, leveraging VR to simulate real-world conditions while providing detailed biomechanical insights.

Construction of tennis pose estimation and action recognition model based on improved ST-GCN

With the rapid growth of computer vision and deep learning technologies, the application of pose estimation and action recognition in sports training has become increasingly widespread. Due to factors such as complex movements, fast speed, and limb occlusion, pose estimation and action recognition in tennis face significant challenges. Therefore, this study first introduces selective dropout and pyramid region of interest pooling layer strategies in fast region convolutional neural networks. Secondly, a pose estimation algorithm based on multi-scale fusion pose residual network 50 is designed, and finally a spatiotemporal graph convolutional network model is constructed by fusing channel attention module and multi-scale dilated convolution module. The data showed that the average detection accuracy of the improved attitude residual network 50 was 70.4%, and the accuracy of object detection for small, medium, and large objects was 57.4%, 69.3%, and 79.2%, respectively. The continuous action recognition accuracy and inter action fluency detection time of the improved spatiotemporal graph convolutional network were 93.8% and 19.2 ms, respectively. When the sample size was 1000, its memory usage was 1378 MB and the running time was 32.7 ms. Experiments have shown that the improved model achieves high accuracy and robustness in tennis action recognition tasks, especially in complex scenes and limb occlusion conditions, where the model shows significant advantages. This study aims to provide an efficient and accurate motion recognition technology for tennis posture analysis and intelligent training.

Physical Education Various Sports Training: A Systematic Review

Physical Education (PE) is a crucial component in promoting character education, physical health, psychosocial and motor skills. Physical learning activities at school can provide a healthy lifestyle. Sports Training for development and performance preparation in team sports such as soccer through played-form activities is getting widely discussed and increasingly recommended in sport organizations at all ages and skill levels. Continuous training is a type of exercise that involves repetitive movements at a continuous intensity without rest periods. Fartlek is a running training method that involves alternating between faster and slower running paces. The word "fartlek" is Swedish for "speed play”. Interval training consists of repeated rounds of exercise that can range from a few seconds to several minutes. Plyometrics, also known as jump training or plyos, are exercises in which muscles exert maximum force in short intervals of time, with the goal of increasing power (speed-strength). Circuit training is a form of body conditioning that involves endurance training, resistance training, high-intensity aerobics, and exercises performed in a circuit, similar to high-intensity interval training. Conclusion Enhanced Physical Fitness: Sports training focuses on improving athletes' strength, endurance, speed, agility, flexibility, and coordination.

RETRACTION: Intelligent Cognitive Evaluation of Ice and Snow Sports Training by Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation from the Perspective of Supply Chain Management

Retraction: P. Hu and P. Zhang, “,” Expert Systems 41, no. (2024): . https://doi.org/10.1111/exsy.13212. The above article, published online on 08 December 2022, in Wiley Online Library (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/), has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor‐in‐Chief, David Camacho; and John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Following an investigation by the publisher, the parties have concluded that this article was accepted solely on the basis of a compromised peer review process. In addition, the investigation found logical inconsistencies between the topic of the article and the conclusions reached in this article. Therefore, the article must be retracted. The authors did not respond to the notice regarding the retraction.

Systematization and Rationalization of Training for under 17 Female Volleyball Players through Specialized Plyometric Programs

The main scope of this study is to use plyometric means in volleyball training, individualized according to the training period, in order to improve the strength-speed capacity from the point of multidimensional perspective. The longitudinal experiment took place during the competitive year 2022-2023 and consisted in the introduction of plyometric means in training, depending on the training period, the time allocated to the improvement of strength-speed capacity being 20 minutes. We mention that the research was carried out in the gym of Dacia Pitesti Technological High School. The statistical data were collected by using the “Kistler Force Measurement Platform - Quattro Jump v1.1.1.x”. According to the results, we mention that through the use of specialized plyometric programs during training, we obtained significantly improved values in the final evaluation of the applied tests, through a significant percentage increase with a value between 7% and 25% in the group subjected to the experiment. Sports training for U17 female volleyball players is a systematic and continuous pedagogical process with the objective of improving the general motor capacity and in particular the strength-speed capacity, the functional and mental capacity, based on the adaptation of the body to the intense and maximum efforts. In conclusion, the use of specialized plyometric programs in the training of cadet female volleyball players (15-17 years), determines a faster and more extensive development of general physical training, ensures a good rest for the athletes and reveals a more efficient use of the time allocated to the training.

Protocol for COACH, an evidence-based intervention for improved head impact safety in youth American football developed using a community-engaged approach.

Subconcussive, repetitive head impacts sustained in collision sports may negatively affect brain health. American football practices are controlled environments amenable to intervention. Engaging community members is essential for successful development, implementation, and sustainability of viable interventions. The objective of this study is to develop and pilot test an evidence-based intervention to reduce head impact exposure in youth American football (i.e., football), using a community-engaged approach. This manuscript describes the co-design of the intervention and associated implementation plan and the study protocol for evaluating the effectiveness and feasibility of the intervention and implementation plan. In the first part of this study, focus groups with parents and coaches, and individual interviews with organizational leaders associated with two teams at the middle school level were conducted. An anonymous survey assessing beliefs and perceptions of non-concussive head impacts was given to parents, coaches, and organizational leaders within the local youth football league. Following the football season, qualitative and quantitative data describing determinants of head acceleration events in football were shared with 12 stakeholders of coaches, league and school administrators, parents, an athletic trainer, and local university player development director. Together, we co-designed COACH (COmmunities Aligned to reduce Concussion and Head impact exposure) and implementation plan using a strategic planning approach. The preliminary effectiveness and feasibility were assessed in the second part of this study. Youth football players participating on the teams in year 1 (control teams) were fitted with mouthpiece-based head kinematic sensors which measure head acceleration events (HAEs). HAEs were collected and quantified during team activities. Preliminary effectiveness of the intervention to reduce HAEs was measured among two new teams pilot testing COACH with mouthpiece-based sensors, while simultaneously monitoring implementation of the intervention. We report our study design and evaluation, and opportunities and challenges with our approach. The results will inform a future full-scale pragmatic trial to assess the implementation and effectiveness of the intervention program. NCT04908930.

The impact of concurrent training in team sports and soccer.

Team sports players are frequently required to integrate multiple physical components, including strength and endurance capacity, to maximize their performance during both training and competitions. The combination of strength and endurance within a periodized program is known as concurrent training. Recently, concurrent training has emerged as an innovative method to enhance both muscular strength and aerobic performance, tailored to the specific requirements and diverse nature of each sport. However, concurrent training may induce excessive fatigue and compromise performance potentiation, depending on training prescription parameters. This distinction between the interference effect and performance enhancement presents a complex challenge for any team sports system. Consequently, the objective of this review was to scrutinize the efficacy, practical application, and methodological aspects of concurrent training. Additionally, it aims to elucidate strategies to mitigate the complexities associated with the interference effect, thereby optimizing the benefits of concurrent training modality for team sports, emphasizing soccer. The major findings indicate that concurrent training can improve strength and endurance qualities in athletes, but under certain conditions, it can also interfere with adaptations. Appropriate programming strategies, such as proper sequencing, scheduling, volume, intensity, and recovery, can help mitigate these negative effects. Additionally, whereas more experienced athletes display greater proficiency in executing concurrent training programs, younger players, particularly those under 14, tend to experience minimal interference effects from this training approach, making it well-suited for their development. Overall, concurrent training has been demonstrated as an effective and efficient method for improving strength and endurance performance in team sports players.

ANÁLISE DA COMPOSIÇÃO CORPORAL E APTIDÃO FÍSICA DE ATLETAS PARALÍMPICOS DE RIO BRANCO ACRE

Introduction: Sports training techniques have sparked interest in detailing the physical and physiological characteristics of athletes to prescribe training specifically tailored to their goals. Objective: This study aimed to analyze body composition and its relationship with physical fitness in Paralympic athletes from Rio Branco, Acre. Method: The sample consisted of 33 athletes from the Paralympic Reference Center of Rio Branco, aged between 11 and 54 years, including 20 with intellectual disabilities, 11 with physical disabilities, and 2 with visual disabilities. Measurements included body mass, height, circumferences, and skinfold thickness. Physical performance was evaluated through handgrip strength (using a hydraulic hand dynamometer in kilograms), speed (30-meter test), upper limb power (medicine ball throw test), and maximum oxygen consumption (beep test). Results: Statistical analysis included Pearson’s correlation coefficient and the Kruskal-Wallis test, with significance set at p<0.05, using SPSS software (version 29.0). Body mass index (BMI) and body mass were significantly different between athletes with physical and intellectual disabilities. A negative correlation was observed between aerobic performance (VO2max) and variables such as age (r= -0.441, p= 0.010), BMI (r= -0.590, p<0.001), body mass (r= -0.376, p= 0.031), and body fat index (BFI) (r= -0.688, p<0.001). Additionally, BFI showed a positive correlation with speed performance (r= 0.603, p= 0.001). Conclusion: Body composition significantly influences physical performance variables, indicating that factors such as BMI, body mass, and BFI impact the sports performance of Paralympic athletes.

Effects of Apartheid Legacy on South African Judo: A Sys-tematic Review

Presently, the sport of Judo in South Africa (JSA) has substantially failed to grow and gain publicity nationally and internationally due to the low number of judokas representing the country. Concurrently, each country has unique motivators and barriers to engagement in sports. On that note, during the period of apartheid (1948-1994), South African (SA) government enacted Group Areas Act to ensure that whites and blacks did not stay together leading in segregated sport trainings and match facilities, which culminated in skewed career opportunities in sport. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to reflect on how SA apartheid system impacted the development of judo in SA. An in-depth search strategy was conducted from inception to April 2023, which involved PubMed, SportDiscuss, Google Scholar and Web of Science. This study’s findings indicate that the system of apartheid disrupted sport in South Africa particularly with sport opportunities and resources being reserved for white athletes. Further, this study’s results indicate that JSA was segregated based on race, location, and social standing. In conclusion, sport participation and access to resources by all should be created to ensure equity and justice for all athletes and coaching staff. This leads to an all-inclusive integrated sports development plan which will increase sport involvement by the citizens. In this effect, JSA introduced free and development registration for athletes who cannot afford to pay fees and this gesture has helped poor athletes access judo.

Sex Differences in Youth and Young Adult Sport Training Patterns, Specialization, and Return to Sport Durations.

Young female athletes may have higher rates of overuse injuries and sport specialization than male athletes. The association of sports specialization and return to sport (RTS) timeframe is also unknown. Specialized female athletes will have more intense, year-round training patterns, more overuse injuries, and longer RTS times than male athletes. Cohort study. Level 3. Injured athletes aged 10 to 23 years presenting to a sports medicine clinic reported their degree of sport specialization and training patterns. Skeletal maturity was estimated using the Khamis-Roche method. Injury type and RTS timeframes were categorized from electronic medical records. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis assessed associations between variables. A total of 485 athletes (40.2% female) were enrolled. Higher degrees of sport specialization were associated strongly with overuse injuries (P < 0.01). After adjusting for specialization, female athletes were more likely to sustain an overuse injury (adjusted odds ratio, 1.49; P = 0.04). Female athletes participated in fewer total physical activity hours per week (P < 0.01), fewer free play hours per week (P < 0.01), and participated in their main sport for more months of the year than their male counterparts (P = 0.02). Female athletes were more likely to be at a higher developmental stage than male athletes (P < 0.01). RTS timeframes were increased in athletes with serious overuse injury; however, no association was found between degree of specialization and RTS time regardless of sex. Female athletes are more likely to sustain overuse injuries with more organized, year-round, training and less free play compared with their male counterparts. Female sex may be an independent risk factor of overuse injury. Future strategies to mitigate these risks may include increased free play hours and limiting year-round training through seasonal rest.

Impact of conjugated material modified intelligent taekwondo equipment on the physical fitness of college students

The cultivation of physical fitness among college students plays an important role in their comprehensive development and healthy growth process. Traditional training methods and equipment lack flexibility, making it difficult to effectively improve the athletic ability and physical fitness of college students. In order to improve the physical health level of college students and improve the quality and level of their sports training, this article conducted in-depth research on intelligent Taekwondo equipment modified with conjugated materials and its impact on the physical fitness of college students. This article first analyzed the requirements for intelligent Taekwondo equipment, and then based on this, graphene was used as the main material to prepare it using electrochemical stripping method, and modified by doping nitrogen atoms. Finally, the modified graphene was used in the design of intelligent Taekwondo equipment. To verify the application effect of modified graphene intelligent Taekwondo equipment, this article conducted testing and analysis on it. The results showed that compared to conventional training methods, students who applied modified graphene intelligent Taekwondo equipment for auxiliary training improved their final test scores in flexibility, endurance, and muscle strength indicators by 0.96 points, 1.02 points, and 0.65 points, respectively. The conclusion indicated that the intelligent Taekwondo equipment modified with graphene conjugated materials had a positive impact on the improvement of physical fitness of college students, which helped to improve their physical health level.

Facial Fractures at the Armed Forces Capital Hospital of Korea: A 10-Year Study From 2013 to 2022.

The aim of this study was to analyze facial bone fractures at the Armed Forces Capital Hospital of Korea (AFCH) from 2013 to 2022. This review included individuals who visited AFCH for treatment. The inclusion criteria for the study were fractures resulting from external trauma, specifically coded as S02.1-4 and S02.6-9. The exclusion criteria comprised fractures caused by factors other than external trauma. This retrospective study of 178 facial bone fractures included 176 males (98.9%) and 2 females (1.1%) (22.5±5.1 years). The most common causes of injury were bumps (72.5%), followed by slips (7.3%), assaults (5.6%), and falls (5.1%). The majority of facial bone fractures occurred during sports activities (33.7%), training (31.5%), or everyday activities (28.7%). Nasal bone fractures were the most prevalent (47.7%), followed by fractures of the maxilla (19.2%), orbit (18.7%), mandible (10.3%), and zygoma (3.3%). The interval between the injury and hospital arrival was 6.0±8.0 days. Among the 164 patients, 110 (67.1%) underwent surgery. The overall complication rate was 8.9%. The highest complication rate was mandibular fractures (22.7%), followed by nasal bone fractures (9.8%). Among the 208 recorded facial bone fractures, 145 patients (69.7%) received treatment at AFCH, whereas 63 (30.3%) were treated in a civilian hospital; 59 patients (28.4%) by their own choice and 4 patients (1.9%) on a consignment basis. The average follow-up period was 202.0±183.2 days. The relatively high rate (28.4%) of treatment at civilian hospitals is attributable to legislation allowing injured soldiers the option to choose between military and civilian medical facilities.