Strengths & Limitations
This study is the first of its kind to evaluate maxillofacial trauma in
the setting volleyball injuries. As such, providers can utilize patient
specific patterns to better build comprehensive profiles and management
plans for patients presenting with various types of injuries following
volleyball participation.
The authors acknowledge several limitations; NEISS does not provide
information that may enhance the conclusions of this study. Aspects of
the injury setting (competitive game, practice, or recreational) or use
of safety equipment are unknown. Certain outcomes, such as lacerations,
contusions, or mild concussions, may be unreported as the injury may not
have warranted an emergency department visit for treatment. Fractures,
on the other hand, are likely to be seen by a healthcare worker, but may
present at a primary care provider instead of the emergency department.
Additionally, the database reports facial injuries as involving the
head, face (including the eyelid, eye area and nose), eyeball/globe,
mouth (including the lips, tongue, and teeth), neck and ear. There is
significant cross-over with these structures which potentially impacted
the analyses of the study. The specific nature and context of the
injuries may increase or decrease presentation at the emergency
department.32 Thus, our results likely underreport
volleyball-related facial trauma.