Open Ankle Fracture on Panorama Trail

June 18, 2012 Posted by: Yosemite Search and Rescue

On the afternoon of June 18, 2012, the Yosemite Emergency Communications Center received a report that a 65-year-old female had fractured her ankle on the Panorama Trail, approximately one mile down from the Glacier Point trailhead. The reporting party stated that the patient had a compound fracture of the right leg, just above the ankle, with bone exposed.  Because of the seriousness of open fracture, it was determined that a rappel and short-haul helicopter rescue would be appropriate to extricate the patient. Several park rangers who are members of the park's helicopter rescue team were inserted into the scene. The patient was packaged in a litter and extricated via short-haul. Details about the events that led to the patient injury are unconfirmed; however, it is important to be cautious and aware of uneven terrain when hiking, even on established trails. Pay attention to where you are walking and wear appropriate footwear. 

Last updated: July 12, 2012

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