Andrew Fifita placed in induced coma after scary NRL incident
Cronulla forward Andrew Fifita has reportedly been placed into an induced coma after a frightening incident in Sunday's match against Newcastle that left him struggling to breathe properly.
Fifita was having trouble swallowing and was rushed to hospital after copping a hit to the throat during his side's 16-14 NRL loss to the Knights at Redcliffe.
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He was rushed to hospital after the incident before the The Sydney Morning Herald's Michael Cummings reported the forward was in ICU and placed in an induced coma.
Fortunately, Fifita is reportedly in a stable condition and is expected to undergo surgery when the swelling goes down to allow him to breathe properly.
The prop reported difficulty swallowing and had a hoarse voice after a blow to the throat in the second half of the game.
Around 20 minutes after the game ended, Fifita was brought out of the dressing sheds and onto the field where he was examined by medical staff.
Fifita could be seen lying on the ground near the fence to the stands being treated by paramedics, before he was whisked away to hospital in an ambulance.
UPDATE
Andrew Fifita is in ICU and has been placed in an induced coma.
He is stable. Hopefully time to rest will reduce the severe swelling to allow him to breathe properly. Surgery expected to follow. Thoughts with Andrew and his family.🙏https://t.co/C5SIC8pfdT— Michael Chammas (@MichaelChammas) August 16, 2021
Sharks confirm Fifita's serious injury
The Sharks confirmed that Fifita had suffered a significant laryngeal injury and was undergoing further treatment in hospital.
“The Sharks can confirm that Andrew Fifita suffered an injury to his throat, following an incident early in the second half of today’s match against Newcastle,” the club statement read.
“After the match Andrew reported difficulty swallowing. He was also noted to have a hoarse voice at this time and his care was escalated to the paramedics with a suspected laryngeal injury.
“He was taken via ambulance to hospital, where a significant laryngeal injury was confirmed.
“Andrew remains in hospital, where he is receiving the best possible care. The Sharks will provide further updates when they become available.”
Fifita's wife Nikki has been by the forward's side as he receives care.
with AAP
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