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Chiefs-Dolphins Playoff Game Frostbite Cases
Fans who gathered at the Chiefs-Dolphins playoff game on January 13 faced extreme weather conditions, as it was the fourth-coldest NFL game on record. The bitter cold led to serious health consequences for many attendees, with some now facing the possibility of amputating affected body parts.
Medical Response
Reports indicate that 69 individuals required treatment from the fire department during the game. Half of those treated exhibited symptoms of hypothermia, highlighting the severity of the situation. The game began with a temperature of -4℉ and a windchill of -20℉. As time passed, conditions worsened with the temperature dropping to -9℉ and a windchill of -28℉ by the end of the game.
Dr. Megan Garcia’s Insights
Dr. Megan Garcia, the director of the Grossman Burn Center in Kansas City, emphasized the gravity of the injuries sustained by fans. Some individuals who suffered frostbite injuries are now facing discussions regarding potential amputations. One striking example involves a fan who, after removing their gloves for just five minutes to set up a tent for tailgating, experienced their fingertips changing color from red to purple.
Garcia revealed that 70 percent of frostbite victims from the event are currently seeking advice on the possibility of amputation. Meanwhile, 30 percent of those advised have opted to undergo treatment with hyperbaric oxygen tanks. These tanks are utilized to accelerate the healing process for stubborn wounds. Despite the treatment, individuals may still experience long-term complications.
According to Garcia, those affected may deal with ongoing pain and sensitivity for the rest of their lives. Additionally, they will be more susceptible to frostbite in the future. As a result, Garcia and her team are focused on educating patients about the importance of keeping warm to prevent such incidents in the future.
Given the severity of the injuries sustained during the record-breaking cold game, the medical community continues to monitor and support those impacted by the extreme weather conditions.
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