The extent of Robert Wickens’ spinal cord injury remains “indeterminate”, according to an official communication released by IndyCar, following his high-speed crash at Pocono.
Wickens clashed with Ryan Hunter-Reay during the early stages of last weekend’s race and was sent into a violent high-speed impact with the catch fence, before spinning across the circuit.
Wickens was extricated from his Schmidt Peterson Motorsport car and transported to the nearby Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest, where he was treated for his injuries.
Wickens was diagnosed as having sustained fractures to his right arm and both legs and on Monday it was confirmed that he had undergone surgery to stabilise a thoracic spinal fracture associated with a spinal cord injury.
Titanium rods and screws were placed successfully in Wickens' spine during the surgery, which was performed without complication.
On Friday a further update was issued confirming that surgeries had been performed on his right arm and lower extremities without complication.
“The extent of the spinal cord injury remains indeterminate,” confirmed a statement.
“Wickens also underwent a series of precautionary tests that found no indication of further injury.
“Future treatment for Wickens includes more corrective surgery and rehabilitation.
“The thoughts of the entire INDYCAR community are with the Wickens family and SPM during this time.”
SPM has already confirmed that it will not replace Wickens in the #6 car for this weekend’s round at Gateway.
