Mc Hale Park in Castlebar was host to the third annual Management Pitchside Emergencies Course last weekend.
The course is the first of its kind in the country and has been hugely successful since its inception three years ago. Mr Paul O’Grady, consultant orthopaedic surgeon in Castlebar was approached by the faculty of sports and exercise medicine of the Royal College Of Surgeons in Ireland as there seemed to be a demand for a course that would be aimed at doctors who are on the pitchside to treat players of all levels.
Mr O’Grady enlisted the help and expertise of Dr Sean Moffatt, Ballina GP and the Mayo senior team doctor to help him in facilitating a course that would be both informative and ‘hands on’. The course was advertised for general practitioners and there was a huge response again this year.
The course was officially opened by Dr Michael Loftus from Crossmolina. The faculty consisted of a host of impressive names in the medical and sporting field. Local consultant specialists were on hand to give expert lectures and assistance at the skill stations.
Dr Geraldine Maloney, consultant anaesthetist, Dr Michelle Duggan, consultant anaesthetist, Mr Ronan Waldron, consultant surgeon, Mr Derek Bennett, consultant orthopaedic surgeon.
Ms Bridget Hughes, consultant orthopaedic surgeon, had fascinating lectures and impressive talks prepared for the participants. Mr Gary O’Toole, former olympic swimmer and consultant orthopaedic surgeon was there to share his experiences.
Consultant neurosurgeon, Mr Darach Crimmins gave a lecture on the management of severe head trauma. Dr John McHugh, dentist gave a very impressive talk about the treatment of dental emergencies at the pitchside.
