Kansas City, KS: What began as a peaceful bike ride along Missouri’s Katy Trail turned into a life-changing trauma for Nate Prater when he collided with a truck and suffered catastrophic facial injuries. His treatment included a rare Le Fort IV fracture that separated his upper jaw from the base of his skull. Nate underwent multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation at The University of Kansas Health System, relearning how to speak, swallow and smile. Nate and the experts who treated him, share the remarkable story of recovery, resilience and the life-saving importance of trauma care and helmet safety.
Jamie Johnson, Speech-Language Pathologist, The University of Kansas Health System
Jamie Johnson shares strategies for keeping patients motivated, including setting goals and celebrating progress.
She describes the therapy process for Nate, focusing on communication, eating, and drinking.
Dr. John Flynn, Facial Plastic Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Flynn explains the complexity of Nate's facial fractures, including a pan facial fracture, zygomatic maxillary complex fracture, orbital fracture, Le Fort IV fracture, palatal split, and mandible fracture.
He highlights the advancements in trauma care, such as virtual surgical planning and its potential for wider use in the future.
Dr. Jennifer Hartwell, Trauma Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Hartwell explains the ABCDE protocol used in emergency departments to prioritize life-threatening injuries.
