Just read a report updating on the status of Florida Panthers forward Richard Zednik. Apparently, the cut to his throat was as severe as it could of been – severing his carotid artery. Scary stuff!
Per the Associated Press story on Newsday’s site:
BUFFALO, N.Y. – Florida Panthers forward Richard Zednik required lifesaving surgery after severing his carotid artery, his agent told The Associated Press on Monday. Zednik was listed in stable condition in the intensive care unit at Buffalo General Hospital, and will continue to be evaluated through the day, attending surgeon Sonya Noor said in a statement released by the hospital.
Zednik had surgery Sunday night after losing a significant amount of blood during the game at Buffalo earlier in the day, agent David Schatia said.
Zednik was sliced across the right side of the throat by teammate Olli Jokinen’s skate in a frightening accident midway through the third period of Buffalo’s 5-3 victory.
Canada’s Sportsnet cable-TV network reported on its Web site that the skate blade just missed cutting the jugular vein.
Again, I wish nothing but the best to Richard Zednik and his family during this difficult time. This is an accident that could literally happen to any player, on any level of hockey at any given time – so this has greatly affected the hockey community quite profoundly.
You are so right… This was a scary, but very lucky situation for Zed. Amazing that nothing really severed (just hanging). God speed Richard, and get better!