Burke to undergo further tests in Utah Hospital

By Published On: January 16th, 2012Comments Off on Burke to undergo further tests in Utah Hospital

Sarah BurkeFree skiing star Sarah Burke of Squamish, B.C. remains in a Utah hospital after sustaining a serious head injury in a fall while training in a Park City, Utah halfpipe on Jan. 10.

Burke’s husband Rory Bushfield, along with his wife’s doctor, was scheduled to meet with members of the media today (Jan.16) to discuss Burke’s progress but the conference was canceled this morning following a meeting between Bushfield and University of Utah doctors last night. After discussing the results of Burke’s most recent neurological tests and assessments Burke’s family and doctors decided to run further tests this morning and in the coming days.

Last Wednesday Burke underwent a successful operation to repair a tear to her vertebral artery which resulted in an intracranial hemorrhage at the time of her fall. William T. Couldwell, M.D. Ph.D., professor and chair of Neurosurgery at University of Utah performed the operation to repair the artery.

“With injuries of this type, we need to observe the course of her brain function before making definitive pronouncements about Sarah’s prognosis for recovery,” said Couldwell after the surgery. “Our Neuro Critical Care team will be monitoring her condition and response continuously over the coming hours and days.”

Burke is a world champion halfpipe skier who many see as the favorite to bring home a gold medal at the sport’s Olympic debut at the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia. She has won four X-Games gold medals, was voted 2007’s Best Female Action Sports Athlete at the ESPY awards and has appeared in many free skiing films.

Ski Racing is closely following Burke’s condition and will continue to provide the most up-to-date information as possible.

Image by Gepa

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About the Author: Eric Williams