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[Hang-gliding accidents in high mountains. Apropos of 200 cases]. Chirurgie; mémoires de l'Académie de chirurgie [Chirurgie] Journal article

Foray J, Abrassart S, Femmy T, Aldilli M 
[Hang-gliding accidents in high mountains. Apropos of 200 cases]. [English Abstract, Journal Article]
Chirurgie 1991; 117(8):613-7.


A review of 200 cases of "paragliding" accidents in high mountain areas has been completed. The first flights have been murderous, a thesis written in 1987 in Grenoble showing seven dead out of 97 casualties. Since then the statistics seen to be improving as a consequence of the setting of regulations and the establishment of "paragliding" schools. The more frequent accidents happen on landing: in 70% of the cases fractures of the "tibiotarsienne", the wrist and the spinal column prevail. They happen to young adults between 20 and 40 years old, with a variable experience. Preventive measures consist in a greater prudence, a good physical condition and a precise aerological knowledge. The adepts of this sport have understood that wearing a helmet and appropriate shoes could reduce the gravity of the accidents. "Paragliding" if not a dangerous sport is certainly a risky one.



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