Henderson’s Schmidt undergoes second foot surgery

Friday, Oct. 22, 1999 | 2:21 a.m.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indy Racing League veteran Sam Schmidt was resting comfortably and in good spirits in an Indianapolis hospital this morning after undergoing his second surgery to treat multiple fractures in both of his feet.

Dr. Kevin Scheid of the IRL's medical staff performed the 2 1/2-half hour surgery Thursday and reported that Schmidt, a Henderson resident, had two screws and multiple pins placed in his left foot to set each of the dislocations and fractures. In addition, the fractures to the toes on his right foot were reassessed.

Schmidt could be facing yet another operation on his right foot, including the possible amputation of the secondary toe. Directly after the accident in Sunday's Mall.com 500 at Texas Motor Speedway, Schmidt underwent surgery to minimize his fractures and assure a successful and easy second procedure. A portion of the top of the big toe on his right foot was amputated because of the severity of the injury.

Schmidt then was transported to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis for additional surgery on his left foot.

Schmidt's overall prognosis is good, but recovery period, rehabilitation and exact release date have yet to be determined, according to a Treadway Racing spokesperson.

The Treadway Racing team said Schmidt was overwhelmed by the cards and flowers he has received since the accident.

"The outpouring of support has been tremendous," said Scott Cronk, vice president of Treadway Racing.