"Filleted it open": Vonn reveals how doctor "saved leg from being amputated" after Olympics crash
Salon.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Alpine skier Lindsey Vonn suffered a complex left leg fracture and compartment syndrome after a crash during the 2026 Winter Olympics downhill competition, risking amputation.
- Dr. Tom Hackett performed a fasciotomy, cutting open both sides of her leg to relieve pressure, which Vonn credits with saving her leg from amputation.
- Vonn had previously retired due to injuries but returned to compete after a full knee replacement and delayed ACL surgery to participate in her final Olympics.
- The decision to compete with an existing ACL injury led to Dr. Hackett's presence at the Olympics, which ultimately enabled the life-saving surgery.
