At a Glance
- 55 young burn victims from a bar blaze in Crans-Montana were taken to Sion hospital.
- The hospital had to open all operating rooms and ICU beds to cope with the surge.
- Victims averaged 20 years old and face months of treatment.
- Why it matters: The event highlights the strain on regional emergency care during peak holiday periods.
The bar blaze on New Year’s Eve forced 55 mostly 20-year-old patrons to seek emergency care at Sion hospital, 10 km from Crans-Montana. The influx overwhelmed the facility, which had to open every operating room and stretch its ICU capacity. General director Eric Bonvin noted the patients’ youth could aid recovery, but the burn injuries are severe and long-term.
Staff rushed to assess injuries, aided by volunteers who had not been scheduled to work. They discovered that many burns were not immediately obvious, as nerve endings were damaged and patients were in shock. Every minute counted as they triaged the wounded.
- Staff scrambled to assess injuries.
- Volunteers joined the effort.
- All operating rooms were opened and ICUs stretched.
Recovery Outlook
The survivors face months of intensive care and rehabilitation. Bonvin emphasized that the patients’ vitality could accelerate healing, yet the road remains long. Most of the 55 patients had been transferred to other hospitals by Friday afternoon, with some discharged.
- Months of intensive care expected.
- Youth may speed recovery.
- Majority transferred or discharged by Friday.
Key Takeaways
- 55 young burn victims were taken to Sion hospital.
- The hospital opened all operating rooms and ICUs to cope.
- Patients face months of treatment, but youth may aid recovery.
The incident underscores the importance of emergency preparedness in alpine regions during holiday peaks.
