TDNet Discover

Background: Motorcycle helmets have consistently been shown to increase the survivability of accidents for those who utilize them. However, there is little data regarding which helmet type and style is the most helpful in decreasing morbidity and mortality rates. Objective: The objective of this capstone is to determine what difference choice of motorcycle helmet type, either full face helmet (FFH) or open face helmet (OFH), makes in the reduction of traumatic brain and craniofacial injuries and which helmet provides the highest degree of safety for motorcycle riders involved in a crash. Methods: An initial search of PubMed, Discover, and Cochrane Library in October 2017 was performed using the terms “motorcycle helmet, helmet type, head, and facial injury.” Limits included English language and published in the last 10 years. The search initially resulted in 53 articles. A repeat search was conducted in February 2018 to see if any new articles on the subject have been published but did not lead to further evidence. Results: A qualitative analysis of relevant research was performed, and three articles were chosen to highlight. While none of the articles are comprehensive, analysis of the body of work reveals that FFHs are superior to OFH in minimizing injury to the motorcyclist. Conclusion: In virtually all cases, FFHs prove superior to OFHs in preventing or reducing the severity of traumatic brain and maxillofacial injuries. However, there are gaps and limitations in the research that should be the focus in future studies