The epidemiology of canyoning rescue operations in Italy: a retrospective 15-year database study

TL;DR

This study examines 15 years of canyoning rescue operations in Italy, finding that most incidents result in minor injuries but some fatalities occur due to drowning and trauma.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of canyoning rescues in Italy using a nationwide database.

Findings

Trauma accounted for 45% of cases, with lower extremity injuries being most common.

Polytrauma and drowning were the leading causes of fatalities.

CROs showed a seasonal pattern and increased over time.

Abstract

Canyoning has become increasingly popular in recent years and led to an increase in rescue operations between 15 and 40% in specific areas. We aimed to study the epidemiology and characteristics of canyoning rescue operations (CRO) in Italy.

We retrospectively collected data from all reports of CRO carried out in Italy for 15 years (from 2009 to 2023) from a nationwide database of the Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico (CNSAS). Data included event details, patient demographics, injury type and severity, and evacuation methods. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed, with a significance level set at p<0.05.

A total of 344 CROs involving 569 patients were analysed. Trauma accounted for 45% of cases, with lower extremity injuries being the most common (42%). Medical emergencies represented 8% of cases, while 263 (46%) patients were uninjured. Severe injuries or illnesses were observed in 9 patients (3%), and 39 patients (13%) died, primarily due to drowning and trauma. The median rescue time was 160 (100-270) min. Helicopters were used in 68% of hospital transports, particularly in more severe cases. CRO times of accidents supported by helicopter were not different from accidents supported by ambulance.

CRO were seasonally related, with an increasing trend over the years. Accidents typically resulted in minor injuries but patients were exposed, despite HEMS support, for long time to environmental factors. Polytrauma and drowning were the leading cause of fatalities.

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