Chest injuries related to surfing

Abstract

Background Surfing is a popular sport in coastal areas, which can be associated with chest injuries. Methods Between 2008 and 2013, 6 patients were referred to our hospital with chest injuries sustained during surfing. Clinical data were collected from their medical records and analyzed retrospectively. Results Patient age ranged from 35 to 52 years. Five of the 6 patients were male. Four patients were injured in August, and the other two were injured in September and October. Rib fractures were observed in 3 of the 6 patients. The other 3 patients were diagnosed with chest contusions only. Hemothorax occurred in one patient. No lacerations were observed in any of the 6 patients. Conclusion Chest injuries associated with surfing are usually blunt chest injuries; however, they may occasionally be life-threatening.