Broken ankle in Mordor classico
| Broken ankle in Mordor classico | |
|---|---|
| Date | 2024/02/28 |
| Location | Mordor |
| Severity | Injury |
| Canyoneering-related | Yes |
| SAR involvement | No |
| Navigation problem | No |
| Environmental problem | No |
| Communication problem | Yes |
| Planning problem | No |
| Skills problem | No |
| Body movement problem | Yes |
| Rigging problem | No |
| Rappel problem | No |
| Insufficient gear | No |
| Gear failure | No |
Summary
High ankle fracture jumping in Mordor classico.
Accounts
Broken ankle in Mordor classico in Costa Rica. More details should be eventually available from the professionals that led the rescue efforts in and outside of the canyon. This is a first hand account from a member of the 10 person group that witnessed the incident and participated in the rescue.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:30am-- verified by the guide. The location was at the running jump at the beginning of the green narrows. The jumper put too much effort into the jump, overshot the landing, and couldn't recover in time. Right leg struck the far wall under water. Shoulder was initially thought to be dislocated as well. Medical professionals and wfa/wfr were in the canyon group and assessment was done immediately. Ankle fracture was suspected. Boot was tightened and left on. Ankle splint was applied and taped into place. First communication was made to get help. There were other know groups of canyoners in the area. Communication was received by about 12:45pm.
The group proceeded to technical rescue in the narrows. Fire man carry was ruled out as it would pull out the shoulder. The victim was lowered via top belay. Tandem rappel was utilized for one rappel. When the canyon opened, the guide and one fast team member departed to bring the relief team. The team member coordinating the rescue confirmed that texts were received. A vehicle was asked for. Time was about 1-1:30 pm. Advil was given.
Victim was lowered and assisted to the final rappel. A natural anchor was built to lower the victim outside of the water course. Victim was assisted down the creek bed until rescue team arrived (time uncertain). Cold water kept the pain down and the victim assisted when possible with the rescue.
Once the relief team arrived, a carrying chair was assembled to move the victim down the creek. Carriers were alternated. Victim was lifted from the harness and the carrier was assisted for balance.
A horse was provided at the creek bed for rescue. Victim rode out on the horse and was at the exit vehicle at approximately 7:45pm. Victim was assisted back at the hostel and then left for a San Jose hospital at 8:30pm. Victim was diagnosed with a high ankle fracture and shoulder was determined to be intact.
