SURGERY AT SEA

Evening Star, Issue 22443, 14 September 1936, Page 8

SURGERY AT SEA

OPERATION ON MARAMA’S MASTER . / [Pee United Press Association.] AUCKLAND, September 14. After the dramatic incident con-* nected with the wireless call on Friday morning for surgical aid in operating on the Marama’s captain, the arrived at Auckland this morning. On receipt of the call, Captain W. Martin increased the Niagara’s speed, and changed course, but shortly afterwards another wireless message announced that assistance was not required. In anticipation of the absence of the ship’s surgeon (Dr D. J. Sweeney) arrangements had been jnad» for Dr G. Hodges, a member of the Australian women’s hockey team, which was proceeding to Vancouver, to act as ship’s surgeon. The Niagara had a fairly calm crossing. DOING VERY WELL 11 [Pee United Press Association.] WELLINGTON, September 14. “ Doing very well,” was the report given on Captain Kane, who was operated on at sea for appendicitis, when the Marama arrived to-day. The operation was carried out by Dr Orbell, a passenger, after consultation with. D? Mercer, the ship’s doctor, when the captain took ill after the Marama left Sydney on Thursday night. Dr Mercer administered the anaesthetic, and valuable assistance was given by Steward Litchfield. ..... ,i Dr Orbell said to-day that it would have been dangerous to postpone the operation until the ship reached port. Speed was reduced during the operation. In the interests of Captain Kane’s greater comfort he was removed to hospital on arrival.