Passengers on a recent Singapore Airlines flight experienced severe turbulence, resulting in several serious injuries. The hospital in Bangkok where the patients are being treated has reported that over 20 individuals are suffering from spinal injuries, with six passengers also sustaining skull and brain injuries. Currently, 20 patients are in the intensive care unit receiving medical attention.
Spine surgeon at the hospital for special surgery explained that these types of injuries require significant force, such as violent thrusting or shaking. Skull injuries and head injuries may occur when passengers are not wearing seatbelts and experience sudden drops or jerking motions, causing their heads to impact surfaces with great force.
Spinal injuries can result from various movements, including flexing forward against braking or collision forces, as well as rotating or violent shaking motions. These injuries can range from muscle strains to fractures that may require surgical intervention. Some spinal injuries can affect the neural elements or spinal cord, leading to more severe consequences.
In the case of the 17 patients who underwent spinal surgery, the surgeon mentioned that procedures were likely needed for fracture dislocations or neck injuries caused by the turbulence. These injuries can result in paralysis or partial paralysis, necessitating post-operative rehabilitation.
Tragically, a 73-year-old British man named Jeff Kitchen passed away during the flight. He had an existing heart condition, and it is speculated that the stress and adrenaline from the turbulent situation may have overwhelmed his heart's capacity, similar to a strenuous physical exertion for which his heart was not prepared.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with severe turbulence during flights, highlighting the importance of following safety protocols, including keeping seatbelts fastened at all times. The impact of such events can be devastating, underscoring the need for passengers to remain vigilant and prepared for unexpected situations while traveling.
