Results and Conclusions:The case analysis confirmed the value of airbags to the safety of vehicle occupants but reinforced the conclusion that they must still be considered supplemental restraint systems. New generation airbags will minimise the risk of injury even to small stature or out of position occupants as they will prevent deployment in situations where they may have an adverse effect.
Twenty cases of maxillofacial trauma to vehicle occupants in motor crashes were retrospectively analysed using data from the CIREN project (Crash Injury Research Engineering Network - a collaboration between eight level 1 trauma centres in America). The facial fractures and lacerations were classified and a correlation was made between the deformation of the vehicle and the injuries sustained. The importance of airbags as supplemental restraint systems is emphasized, as is the necessity for coexistent seatbelt use. The vehicle 'A' pillar as a source of injury is highlighted. Although there is no doubt that airbags save lives, the possible risks of powerful airbag deployment to small stature, out of position, vehicle occupants is discussed.
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