Grill Brush Bristle Injuries Continue to Rise
Most patients were treated and released, with the oropharynx the most common injury site
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By
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Kathryn Wighton
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April 10, 2026
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1
Grill brush wire bristle injuries in the US rose to an estimated 3,739 cases from 2015 to 2023, a 229% increase from 2006 to 2014.
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Most patients (71%) were treated and released, while 24% required hospital admission, with no fatalities reported.
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The oropharynx was the most common injury site, accounting for 40% of cases, with injuries occurring year-round but peaking in summer.
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Patients aged 19 to 40 years represented 38% of cases, while those under 18 years accounted for 14% of injuries.
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Despite increased awareness of grill brush dangers, the incidence of related injuries has not decreased over the past decade.