Successful surgical correction of a cataract in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) via field setting at a zoological facility

A 41-year-old male vasectomized, zoo-housed chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) presented with progressive visual deficits due to bilateral cataract formation. Phacoemulsification and lenticular implant were performed by a veterinary and human board-certified ophthalmologist team in a field setting. Post-operative healing occurred without complication, and the patient returned to the troop with improved vision.

Surgical technique for ambulatory management of airsacculitis in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)

PURPOSE

Bacterial infections of the air sac have been reported in many nonhuman primates. Approaches to the management of airsacculitis have included combinations of medical and surgical therapies. These strategies have often required repeated attempts to drain exudate from the affected air sac, as well as necessitating that the animal endure isolation or undergo intensive postoperative care before returning to its social group.

METHODS

A stoma was created via deliberate apposition of the air sac lining and skin to allow continuous drainage. Antibiotic therapy based on culture and antimicrobial susceptibility of the air sac contents was administered while the chimpanzee remained in its social group.

RESULTS

We were able to attain complete resolution of the infection after a course of oral antibiotic therapy. The stoma closed gradually over a three-week period, and the chimpanzee has remained free of infection since that time.

CONCLUSION

Despite the severity of the air sac infection in this chimpanzee, we were able to resolve the infection easily, using a simple surgical technique. This method allowed treatment without interfering with social standing or subjection to repeated anesthetic and treatment episodes. This method could be a simple, useful alternative for managing airsacculitis in nonhuman primates.

Tubal ligation in the chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) as a means of contraception

Contraception of two chimpanzees was considered necessary for clinical reasons. After failure of reversible methods of contraception (an intrauterine device and a long-acting progestagen), tubal ligation was successfully performed, using a technique similar to one used in women.

Liver wedge biopsy in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) using an automatic stapling device

Liver wedge biopsies were taken from 10 chimpanzees using an automatic stapling instrument. The procedure provided sufficient quantities of liver tissue for cell culture, provided excellent hemostasis and reduced surgery time.

Technique of laparoscopy in the chimpanzee

We have developed the technique of laparoscopy in the chimpanzee using a modification of the standard human procedure. The technique requires careful management, but permits repeated examination, high quality photography, ovarian biopsy, follicle aspiration and injections into the ovary. The chimpanzee may thus be useful for evaluating new techniques or instrumentation intended for human patients. In addition, laparoscopy access to the internal genitalia enhances the value of the chimpanzee as an experimental model.