Lindsey Vonn Narrowly Avoids Leg Amputation After Olympic Crash

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American skier Lindsey Vonn revealed she nearly lost her left leg after a frightening crash during the women's downhill event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, Italy. Vonn suffered a complex tibia fracture and developed compartment syndrome, a dangerous condition that restricts blood flow and can lead to permanent injury. She credited the quick action of Team USA's orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tom Hackett, who performed emergency surgery to save her leg from amputation.

Why it matters

Vonn's near-catastrophic injury highlights the immense physical toll and risks that elite athletes face, especially in dangerous winter sports like downhill skiing. Her story also underscores the critical importance of having top-tier medical staff on hand at major sporting events to provide immediate, life-saving care.

The details

Vonn said the trauma from the crash led to compartment syndrome in her left leg, where excessive pressure buildup was restricting blood flow and threatening permanent damage. Dr. Hackett performed an emergency fasciotomy procedure to 'fillet open' her leg and allow it to 'breathe,' ultimately saving the limb from amputation. Vonn also broke her right ankle in the crash and underwent multiple surgeries during a week-long hospital stay in Italy.

• Vonn crashed just 13 seconds into her run on February 8, 2026.
• She was airlifted from the course and hospitalized in Treviso, Italy.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Vonn said it will take about a year for the bones in her left leg to heal before doctors can repair the torn ACL. She is currently confined to a wheelchair but is focused on her rehabilitation.