A case-series study of cervical cord injury related to apple farming

Abstract

Purpose: Cervical spinal cord injuries（ SCI） associated with apple farming are frequently experienced in trauma care in the Tsugaru region. The aim of this study was to clarify the cause of injury and the clinical characteristics in SCI patients injured during apple farming.
Methods: Cases of SCI related to apple farming were investigated from January 2015 to August 2019 at Hirosaki University Hospital. The patients' characteristics, month and cause of injury, neurological severity, and prognosis were extracted from the medical records.
Results: Nine of the ten identified cases were male, and most of the events occurred in May and June（ 7 cases）. The injuries were classified into two categories: those related to riding mower operation（ 5 cases） and falling from ladders and other high places（ 5 cases）. On the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale（ AIS） at discharge, A, B, C, D, and E were 1, 2, 3, and 2, respectively.
Conclusion: This case series study has revealed the typical time and cause of injury in SCI associated with apple farming. Severe cases were also observed, and it is urgent to establish preventive measures.