Horseback riding is a popular activity among children. The sport has a higher risk for injuries compared to those that are often considered more dangerous such as football and skiing. Horse-related injuries accounted for an estimated 13,400 emergency department visits among children younger than 15 years-old in 2002 in the United States. The severity score of these injuries ranks second only to those children who were struck by a car. Horse-related trauma can be particularly severe considering that equestrian horses can weigh as much as 1200 pounds and run as fast as 40 miles/hour. Thirty seven percent of injured children require operative intervention. After reviewing this educational exhibit, radiologists and trainees will have increased awareness about the types and imaging appearance of horse-related trauma in children. In descending order of frequency, mechanisms of injury include falls, kicks, and being stomped/trampled. Head trauma is the most commonly reported location of injury and the most common cause of death. Extremity trauma is also common, but the face, chest, abdomen, and spine can also be involved. Read More

Meeting name: IPR 2026 Congress , 2026

Authors: Danahy Elizabeth, Betz Lisa, Jones Richard

Keywords: Trauma, Pediatric, Imaging Features