Fifita ‘could have died’ if not for staff’s quick thinking

The latest about Andrew Fifita’s horrifying throat injury has been revealed, with the Sydney Morning Herald stating that the Cronulla prop could have died if the staff that treated him hadn’t have done so quickly.

The Herald said Fifita “could have died” and his “screams reverberated around” the Redcliffe’s Moreton Daily Stadium on Sunday night.

The horrific scene could be heard by his teammates inside the changing rooms, as stadium staff shut the doors to stop people going outside to check on the situation, with Fifita being treated for just slightly shy of an hour.

His airway was reportedly closing and so paramedics made the decision to rush the 32-year-old to Royal Brisbane Hospital for emergency treatment.

Fifita was placed in an induced coma on Monday, with the diagnosis a fractured larynx, though the prop is is expected to make a full recovery.

“Andrew Fifita underwent laryngeal surgery late today in Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital,” the Sharks revealed. “The surgeon carrying out the procedure informed that the surgery was successful, with Andrew expected to make a full recovery.

“Andrew will now remain in ICU in the short term, before continuing his recovery in hospital.

“Andrew’s wife Nikki and the Fifita family would like to express their thanks to their many friends, Sharks members and fans and the wider rugby league community for the support and well wishes received, with the family now looking for some space and privacy during the recovery process.

“The Sharks will support Nikki and her family and allow Andrew the time to recover and ask that their wishes for privacy are respected during this time.”