Impact of wearing a helmet on the risk of hospitalization and intracranial haemorrhage after a sports injury.

Background: Despite their reported protective effect against the occurrence of head injuries, helmets are still used inconsistently in sports in which they are optional. We aimed to assess the impact of helmet use on the risk of hospitalization and intracranial haemorrhage for trauma occurring during sport activities.

Methods: Retrospective cohort of all patients who presented themselves, over an 18-month period, at the emergency department of a tertiary trauma centre for an injury sustained in a sport or leisure activity where the use of a helmet is optional.