Morante down: severe gash rocks bullfighter's glute
José Antonio Morante de la Puebla suffered a serious puncture wound to his left buttock after being gored by a bull during Monday’s tenth Feria de Abril bullfight in Seville. The incident, which occurred while attempting to secure the fourth bull, has prompted an extended surgical intervention.
Critical condition following bull’s attack
The doctor’s report, signed by Octavio Mulet, chief surgeon of the bullring’s infirmary, classifies the injury as ‘very grave.’ Initial assessments reveal a 10-centimeter tear through the posterior anal margin, partially damaging the anal sphincter muscles and causing a 1.5-centimeter perforation in the posterior wall of the rectum. The surgical team undertook over two hours of repairs, including a wound lavage, rectal wall reconstruction, and the placement of an aspirating drain in the post-anal and retro-rectal space.
A bloody first act
The goring itself occurred when Morante, maneuvering for the fourth bull – a specimen from García Jiménez’s herd – was abruptly charged, with the bull’s left piton striking the torero’s left buttock. He collapsed onto the sand, immediately attended to by cuadrillas who swiftly transported him to the infirmary. Remarkably, he had already secured a kill on the first bull of his lineup.
Detailed surgical procedure
The official statement detailed a meticulous procedure. Beyond the immediate repair, the surgeons focused on stabilizing the rectal and sphincter apparatus, recognizing the potential for complications. The aspirating drain is intended to manage any fluid accumulation in the immediate post-injury area, a crucial step in preventing infection and promoting healing. This isn't a minor setback; it’s a brutal reminder of the inherent risks involved in facing a charging bull.
A sharp reminder
Morante, known for his uncompromising style and relentless pursuit of the kill, now faces a lengthy recovery. The severity of the wound underscores the constant danger faced by matadores, demanding respect not just for their skill, but for the raw, unforgiving nature of their profession. It’s a brutal exchange, and one that leaves a lasting impact – both physical and, perhaps, psychological.