Shark bite victim Kiersten Yow recovering from surgery at UNC

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Doctors at UNC Children's Hospital say Oak Island shark bite victim Kiersten Yow has had several surgeries since she was bitten on June 14.

The 12-year-old was transferred to UNC from New Hanover Regional Medical Center the day after she was injured.

Kiersten had two surgeries during her first week at UNC. In both cases, surgeons performed "operate debridement," removing dead and damaged tissue from the wounds on her left arm and left leg, according to a statement from Surgeon-in-Chief Bill Adamson, MD.

Kiersten had her first reconstructive surgery on Wednesday.

"A team of surgical specialists covered the leg wound with a skin graft and completed initial reconstruction of the elbow, reattaching the tendons to provide maximal range of motion," Adamson said in statement. "Reconstruction of the elbow will continue in the coming weeks with surgical wound care and skin grafting on her arm."

Doctors say the bite sound on her leg, near the rear upper thigh, did not reach bone or the nerves that control the lower leg. The skin grafting on her legs will provide her good function, according to the news release.

"Kiersten continues to amaze her entire care team with her upbeat, can-do attitude, which is truly extraordinary for a girl her age given the trauma she experienced," Adamson added. "There's been no, "Why me?" or sulking, just a dogged determination to reestablish her independence and return to a normal life—and we are proud to play our part in getting her and her family there."

Kiersten's family has been updating friends, family and the public through a facebook support page. There they have posted photos of Kiersten walking with assistance before Wednesday's surgery.

A 16-year-old boy, Hunter Treschl, was also bitten at Oak Island shortly after Kiersten's injuries. Treschl's left arm was amputated. He was treated and released from New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Another possible shark bite happened on Wednesday of this week in Surf City. Officials say an 8-year-old boy suffered minor injuries.

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