Source: Supplied.

Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS rider Tito Rabat, who sustained injuries in a heavy crash during the second day of testing in Sepang, underwent surgery at the Hospital Universitario Dexeus in Barcelona on Wednesday evening.

The two-hour surgery, which was performed by doctors Xavier Mir, head traumatology for MotoGP, and Ignacio Ginebreda was a success, according to a statement released by the team overnight.

Rabat’s assortment of injuries operated on including surgical cleaning and closing of a severe laceration and skin loss on the left knee, insertion of screws to stabilise a distal fracture of the radius in the right hand, a plate and screws to stabilise a small fracture to the fifth metacarpal in the right hand, immobilisation of the right foot due to a fracture to the distal phalanx.

“The good news is that the surgery Tito had last night was successful,” commented team principal Michael Bartholemy. “Obviously the bad news is the extent of the injuries he sustained in the Sepang crash. The knee injury is the biggest issue because it was an open wound and the risk of infection is high, hence the need for him to stay in hospital over the weekend.

“We know Tito and he’s probably checking flights for the Phillip Island test from his hospital bed already, but he needs to be realistic too. It makes no sense for him to return until he’s fit enough for the physical demands that racing a MotoGP bike places on a rider.”

The treatment will be evaluated in 48 hours and Rabat will remain in hospital for intravenous antibiotic treatment to combat infection for the next four days. On Monday the former Moto2 world champion will undergo a further full examination by doctors, after which a rehabilitation program will be decided upon.