Catastrophic injuries and exertional medical events in lacrosse among youth, high school and collegiate athletes: longitudinal surveillance over four decades (1982-2020).

The incidence of catastrophic events during lacrosse was higher among collegiate than high school or youth athletes. SCA from an underlying cardiac condition or from commotio cordis was the most common catastrophic event. Fatality rates from catastrophic injuries have declined significantly over the study period, perhaps driven by protective measures adopted by lacrosse governing bodies.