Worcester’s Michael Fatialofa has op on spinal cord after ‘reduced limb power’ following horror neck injury at Saracens – The Sun
WORCESTER rugby star Michael Fatialofa will undergo surgery after suffering reduced power and mobility in his arms and legs following a horror tackle.
The second-row ace, 27, was down for 15 minutes of on-field treatment during the Warriors' 62-5 Gallagher Premiership defeat to Sarries on Saturday.
And the New Zealander was kept in for a second night in intensive care, after major concerns over his long-term health.
He is set to undergo an operation to relieve bruising and swelling on his spinal cord, but has been alert and awake at the Intensive Care Unit at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington.
A Warriors statement said: "Initial scans were positive showing no broken bones, however, he has some bruising and swelling on his spinal cord.
"He will undergo surgery this evening in order to relieve the pressure caused by the bruising and help restore function.
"Nick Tait, Warriors’ club Doctor, and the club’s medical team are in daily contact with Michael’s neurosurgeon.
"Michael and his wife, Tatiana, have been overwhelmed by messages and offers of support from the rugby community across the world."
His wife Tatiana, who he married just a few months ago, posted an update on social media.
She said: "Haven't had the chance to reply to a single person yet but @michaelflats is overwhelmed (in the best way) by all the prayers and support — it's TRULY helping keep his spirits high, just so thankful honestly for the outpouring of love!
"We can tangibly feel the presence of God enveloping us in this horrible situation & have such trust that He is good through it all.
"Update wise: Michael is in Intensive Care right now.
"Pls keep praying for any improvements."
Fatialofa appears to have sustained the injury while going into a tackle where he dropped his head while going into contact at Allianz Park.
Rugby union players clash heads all the time, especially during the breakdown — and the sport is desperate to improve its safety record, as shown by lowering the tackle height before last year's World Cup.
West Auckland to West Midlands ah haa
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Worcester director of rugby Alan Solomons said: "It seemed like he dropped his head as he went into contact.
"I haven't studied the footage but it seems like he's taken a blow to the neck.
"For me, a neck injury like that is a massive concern and I am worried about it, but the medics have taken all precautions and have done everything possible."
Wifey ?
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