Field Hockey Player Suffers Larynx Injury

Mike Lee of Simi Valley suffered a fractured larynx when he was hit in the throat with the ball Saturday night in a U.S. Olympic Festival field hockey game.

Lee’s injury is similar to the one incurred by The Masters’ College basketball player Phil Sanson, but it not as severe.

Lee, 28, does not have respiratory problems and his ability to speak is improving.

He was released from the intensive-care unit of Baptist Hospital Monday and referred to UCLA specialist Thomas Calcaterra.

“The larynx is minimally displaced,” said ear, nose and throat specialist Dr. Steve Talley.

“There’s some hoarseness, but his voice is improving. It is more there than not there. It’s probably going to come back.”

After consulting with two other surgeons, Talley decided not to operate.

“We all agreed to wait and see,” he said.

“You will find people who will operate, but it could be a long run for a short slide.”