After a grueling 75-hour rescue mission, Italian caver Ottavia Piana has been successfully airlifted to a hospital following her fall in the uncharted depths of the Abisso Bueno Fonteno cave system in the Bergamo area. The incident occurred on Saturday when the 32-year-old speleologist fell approximately 5-6 meters, suffering serious injuries to her vertebrae, ribs, face, and knee.
Injured Caver Rescued After 75-Hour Operation in Northern Italy
Injured Caver Rescued After 75-Hour Operation in Northern Italy
Italian authorities commend brave volunteers and intricate rescue efforts as experienced caver is airlifted to safety.
The rescue operation mobilized over 150 volunteers, primarily comprising members of Italy's Alpine and cave rescue teams. Piana's condition necessitated prompt action; cold conditions threatened to worsen her injuries. Volunteer rescuer Giorgio Pannuzzo reported, "She's tired, exhausted and in pain...We have succeeded," reflecting the group's determination throughout the challenge.
The caving incident unfolded as Piana engaged in a project aimed at mapping undiscovered parts of the cave. The rugged terrain, characterized by tight passages and numerous obstacles, complicated the already tense rescue efforts. Workers frequently alternated duties to carry the stretcher and clear paths. In some instances, small explosives were used to assist in navigating around obstructions.
According to the CNSAS Alpine rescue service, a comprehensive team comprising of six doctors and eight nurses monitored Piana's condition throughout the ordeal. Over 159 volunteers from 13 Italian regions contributed to the endeavor, demonstrating remarkable community involvement.
Despite her injuries and the arduous rescue, Piana conveyed to her medical team that she never wished to enter the cave again. The complexity of this rescue not only underscores the risks associated with caving but also the responsiveness of Italian emergency services and community solidarity in crisis situations.
The caving incident unfolded as Piana engaged in a project aimed at mapping undiscovered parts of the cave. The rugged terrain, characterized by tight passages and numerous obstacles, complicated the already tense rescue efforts. Workers frequently alternated duties to carry the stretcher and clear paths. In some instances, small explosives were used to assist in navigating around obstructions.
According to the CNSAS Alpine rescue service, a comprehensive team comprising of six doctors and eight nurses monitored Piana's condition throughout the ordeal. Over 159 volunteers from 13 Italian regions contributed to the endeavor, demonstrating remarkable community involvement.
Despite her injuries and the arduous rescue, Piana conveyed to her medical team that she never wished to enter the cave again. The complexity of this rescue not only underscores the risks associated with caving but also the responsiveness of Italian emergency services and community solidarity in crisis situations.
