Kayaker's Leg Amputated During Grueling Rescue Operation in Tasmania

A kayaker in Tasmania recently endured a horrific leg amputation in order to save his life.

River rapids surrounding large boulders / Unsplash

A male kayaker was off on a river excursion with a group of his friends when his trip took an unexpected turn that changed his life.

The incident occurred on November 22 at approximately 2:30 p.m. as the kayakers were paddling down the Franklin River in Australia. One of the men became trapped between a set of rocks in a rapid.

The kayakers were unable to extract the individual on their own. Luckily, the group was well-prepared and brought along a Garmin, a satellite communicator, which allowed them to contact authorities around 3:30 p.m. Upon receiving the call, several teams immediately deployed.

"Several attempts were made to extract the man yesterday evening and overnight, but were not successful," the Tasmania Police wrote on social media.

According to officials, the remote location of the incident made the rescue operation even more challenging. As rescue members continued their efforts, the kayaker remained partially submerged in the water and his health was beginning to decline.

"A medical assessment determined the patient's condition was deteriorating," stated officials on Facebook. "In consultation with the patient, the decision was made to amputate his leg to facilitate his rescue. The operation was successfully undertaken by the medical team, with the aid of specialist equipment."

Doug Oosterloo, Acting Assistant Commissioner, explained that "every effort was made to extract the man before the difficult decision to amputate his leg."

After the amputation, the kayaker was removed from the area and quickly transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital in Tasmania via helicopter. While the operation was deemed successful, the kayaker remains in critical condition and will have a long road of recovery ahead of him.

"The professionalism and commitment of all emergency responders is to be commended," Oosterloo wrote. "I'd like to thank everyone who contributed to this operation in the most difficult of circumstances."

While many backcountry users enter the wilderness prepared for emergencies, we often believe such dreadful experiences will not happen to us. This incident serves as a reminder of how important it is to carry life-saving emergency equipment, such as a Garmin, in case your trip takes a turn.

The dedication and swift action made by all rescue members involved in this operation is honorable.