Leg amputation is a possibility for injured racer

By Published On: March 3rd, 2008Comments Off on Leg amputation is a possibility for injured racer

The prognosis for Austrian racer Matthias Lanzinger, injured during the super G at Kvitfjell on Sunday, is still in question and there are fears his leg may have to be amputated.
    According to the Austrian Ski Team Web site, Lanzinger underwent surgery in Oslo at the university hospital. Circulation in his injured leg is critical and the surgery was an attempt to correct that issue. The result, however, is still in question.
THE PROGNOSIS for Austrian racer Matthias Lanzinger, injured during the World Cup super G at Kvitfjell on Sunday, is still in question and there are fears his leg may have to be amputated.
    According to the Austrian Ski Team Web site, Lanzinger underwent surgery in Oslo at the university hospital. Circulation in his injured leg is critical and the surgery was an attempt to correct that issue. The result, however, is still in question.
    Lanzinger has been placed in an artificial coma. Austrian blood vessel specialist Thomas Hoelzenbein is quoted saying, "It is a very grave injury. The blood flow in the leg is critical and bad. We are trying to improve it."
    Lanzinger fractured his tibia and fibula and sustained "flesh injuries," which are considered threatening. He was airlifted out of Kvitfjell, but by a private helicopter and not a medical vehicle. The Austrian newpaper Kurier Daily reported on its Web site that Lanzinger must fear for his leg "because of scandalous delays in the initial treatment."

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