Cronulla's Andrew Fifita reportedly placed in induced coma after 'significant' throat injury
By WWOS staffSharks forward Andrew Fifita has reportedly been placed in an induced coma, after he was hit in the throat during Cronulla's loss to Newcastle yesterday.
Fifita was taken to Royal Brisbane Hospital last night after he complained of trouble breathing.
The Sydney Morning Herald reports he's been placed in an induced coma to assist with breathing, made more difficult due to severe swelling of the larynx.
It is understood he is in a stable condition, and hospital staff are hopeful of waking him later today to work out the next step in his treatment.
It's expected he'll require surgery which will end his season, and possibly place his career in jeopardy.
"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 said last night.
"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."