Epidemiology and Clinical Characteristics of Fireworks-Related Injuries in Los Angeles County Trauma Centers

Purpose . Fireworks-related injuries (FWIs) remain a public health concern during festivities, affecting mainly adolescents and young adults. This study evaluates the epidemiology, demographics, and clinical features of FWIs at trauma centers in Los Angeles County Methods . A retrospective review of the Los Angeles County Trauma Registry identified all FWI patients treated at 12 trauma centers (2015–2022). Collected data included demographics, injury characteristics , and outcomes. Injury severity was measured by AIS and ISS. Incidence rates used U.S. Census intercensal estimates. Results . A total of 244 FWI patients (0.31/100,000) presented, rising from 0.19 to 0.47/100,000 (peak 0.66 in 2021). Patients were predominantly male (92.6%) and aged 15–34 (67.6%). Hispanics comprised 66% of cases; African Americans had the highest per capita rate. July accounted for 57.4% of injuries, especially July 4–5 (41.8%). Extremity injuries occurred in 86.9%, with 62.7% undergoing upper-limb amputations. Ocular injuries occurred in 31.1%; burns in 27%.Surgical intervention was needed in 79.1%. ICU admission occurred in 18.4% (median stay 3 days); median hospital stay was 4 days. No fatalities were reported. Conclusion . FWIs are increasing, causing significant extremity and ocular trauma; stronger prevention and enforcement are needed.