The fast-thinking move that may have saved Andrew Fifita's life
The frightening incident that's left Cronulla Sharks star Andrew Fifita in an induced coma could have been so much worse if it wasn't for the actions of quick-thinking medical personnel.
That's according to reports from The Sydney Morning Herald that says sources close to the incident praised the swift response from paramedics for their potentially life-saving move on Sunday.
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Fifita, who has played just six NRL games this season, copped a blow to the throat early in the second half of the round 22 loss to the Newcastle Knights.
He had trouble breathing and swallowing while his voice was also affected.
About 20 minutes after the game ended, a distressed Fifita was brought out of the dressing sheds and onto the field where he was examined by paramedics.
Onlookers reportedly noticed a change in Fifita's voice and became concerned about his increasingly panicked state, with stadium officials forced to close the door to the tunnel to stop people coming out to check on him.
When the medical team realised that Fifita's airways were closing rapidly and his difficulties breathing became worse, they quickly whisked him away to a Brisbane hospital, where he was placed in an intensive care unit (ICU) and underwent emergency treatment.
The 2016 premiership hero has severe swelling of the larynx which is affecting his breathing, prompting doctors to sedate him.
Fifita remains in a stable condition and is due to have surgery on Tuesday afternoon.
"He is receiving the best possible care and all going well, it is expected he will recover in hospital for an extended period," a Cronulla statement said.
The 32-year-old played just 13 minutes of the game, coming off in the 39th minute for a head injury assessment after colliding with Kurt Mann's shoulder while taking a hit-up.
Andrew Fifita to undergo surgery on Tuesday
He was cleared of a concussion in the sheds at halftime, but was taken off the field again in the 46th minute and did not return to the game.
A collision with Newcastle's Tyson Frizell shortly before Fifita left the field may have caused the injury.
While running the ball, the Knights second-rower put his palm out to fend off Fifita, contacting him in the neck.
However, the Sharks remain unsure of how the injury happened.
Cronulla released a statement on Monday night, saying: “The Sharks can inform that Andrew has suffered a laryngeal fracture and is currently in an induced coma.
Fifita's wife Nikki has been by the player's side throughout the ordeal, with his brother David released a statement on behalf of the family.
“Hey everyone, on behalf of the Fifita family, I would like to thank everyone for their support, concern and kind words during this difficult time that we face,” he posted on social media.
“As a family we ask everyone to please respect our privacy and allow Andrew and the family space to heal and recover.
“In saying this I would like to thank @CronullaSharks and @NRL for helping support our family in Queensland through this time.”
with AAP
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