Author/Authors :
Cerreta, Anthony J. Department of Clinical Sciences - College of Veterinary Medicine -North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA , McMullen Jr, Richard J. Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine - JT Vaughan Large Animal Teaching Hospital, USA , Scott, Heather E. Hanes Veterinary Medical Center - North Carolina Zoo, USA , Ringenberg, Jennifer D. Blue Pearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital, USA , Hempstead, Julie E. Gulf Coast Veterinary, USA , DeVoe, Ryan S. Department of Animal Health, USA , Loomis, Michael R. Department of Clinical Sciences - College of Veterinary Medicine -North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA , Minter, Larry J. Department of Clinical Sciences - College of Veterinary Medicine -North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA
Abstract :
A 37-year-old bull African elephant (Loxodonta africana) at the North Carolina Zoo (NCZ) was diagnosed with bilateral cataracts
leading to behavioral changes and signifcant weight loss secondary to functional blindness. On initial examination, a weight loss
of 234 kg, a mature cataract in the right eye, and a focal cataract in the lef eye were diagnosed. Ultrasound and electroretinography
(ERG) indicated normal retinal attachment and both eyes were viable candidates for surgery. Afer careful planning and behavioral
training, the lef cataract was surgically removed via phacoemulsifcation and irrigation/aspiration. Te right eye subsequently
developed a ventral lens subluxation, and phacoemulsifcation and irrigation/aspiration were performed six months afer the frst
procedure. Four years afer surgery, menace response, palpebral refex, dazzle refex, and pupillary light refexes were present in
both eyes. Body weight was 5,515 kg, 88kg more than at the time of the second surgery. Tis is the frst published report of
an African bull elephant undergoing bilateral cataract removal using phacoemulsifcation and irrigation/aspiration. Te lack of
signifcant postoperative infammation and uneventful recovery of the elephant suggests that this surgical procedure along with
proper preoperative planning and postoperative medical management can be a safe and efective treatment option for elephants
with cataracts.
