Former Hurricanes lock Michael Fatialofa is recovering from neck surgery after suffering serious injury playing in Worcester's 62-5 Gallagher Premiership defeat at Saracens over the weekend.
The club provided an update this morning saying he was still in the Intensive Care Unit at Mary's Hospital in London.
"Warriors lock Michael Fatialofa is resting and recovering in St Mary's Hospital in Paddington having undergone surgery last night to relieve pressure on his spinal cord caused by swelling," the statement said.
"The operation was a success and Michael is stable, but he remains in a serious condition and is receiving on-going care at the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital.
"The process of recovery and observation of improvement will now begin. As always our thoughts and prayers are with Michael and his family who we will continue support however we can as part of the Warriors family.
"Michael and his family are sincerely grateful for the support shown by the rugby community," the statement said.
Michael Fatialofa and wife Tatiana in hospital. Photo / Supplied
Yesterday, Fatialofa's wife Tatiana sent a message to their supporters via Worcester Warrior's Twitter account.
"Haven't had a chance to reply to a single person yet but Michael is overwhelmed (in the best way) by all the prayers and support — it's truly helping keep his spirits high, just so thankful honestly for the outpouring of love!
"We can tangibly feel the presence of God enveloping us in this horrible situation and have such trust that He is good through it all. Update wise: Michael is stable in Intensive Care right now. Please keep praying for any improvements."
Fatialofa had been on the pitch for just over a minute when he was hurt while taking the ball into contact.
Play was held up for almost 10 minutes as he received medical attention and, having been carried from the pitch on a stretcher, he was taken by ambulance to St Mary's hospital accompanied by the team doctor and a travelling reserve.
"For me, a neck injury like that is a massive concern and I am worried about it, but I haven't had any report from the hospital," Worcester boss Alan Solomons said.
"It seemed like he dropped his head as he went into contact, but I haven't studied the footage. It seems like he's taken a blow to the neck.
"The medics have taken all precautions and have done everything possible. We've contacted his partner to let her know."
Michael Fatialofa is stretchered off the field after injuring his neck in a tackle. Photo / Getty
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall added: "Our thoughts are with Michael Fatialofa. It didn't look great. His health is the most important thing."
Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael Fatialofa of @WorcsWarriors wishing you a swift and full recovery🙏
That move proved profitable for Fatialofa as, after one season with the province, he was selected to play for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby where he helped the side to their maiden title.
Fatialofa is currently signed with Worcester on a two-year contract from the 2018-19 season.
