Innovative procedure to save Chimpanzee’s remaining ear

30 August 2015

Innovative procedure to save Chimpanzee’s remaining ear

This week a Wellington Zoo Chimpanzee will undergo a groundbreaking procedure in a last-ditch effort to save her remaining ear.

Cara, a 33-year-old Chimpanzee who has lived at the Zoo since 1992, is easily distinguished from the rest of the troop by her barely-there left ear – and the story behind it.

“For several years Cara suffered from a chronic ear infection in her left ear, and it wasn't resolving with oral antibiotics,” said Dr Lisa Argilla, Veterinary Sciences Manager.

The infection became life-threatening once it spread into Cara’s inner ear and part of her skull, so in 2010 Dr Argilla and her team performed a highly complex ear canal ablation surgery at The Nest Te Kōhanga – with the expert help of ear, nose and throat specialist surgeon Dr Rebecca Garland and specialist veterinary surgeon Dr Andrew Worth. The pioneering surgery, which successfully cured the infection and saved Cara’s life, had never before been performed on a Chimpanzee.

History repeated itself in 2014, when Zoo staff discovered that Cara had developed a new infection in her right and remaining ear. Veterinarians immediately began treatment, monitored her closely with regular check-ups to flush and clean the ear, and performed a CT scan to examine her ear canal and chest to rule out signs of pneumonia.

However, the Chimpanzee had her own inventive approach to treating the infection.

“Cara has a habit of jamming sticks and other objects into her ear, which most likely gives her a bit of immediate relief, “ explained Dr Argilla. “Unfortunately these break off inside the ear canal, causing a blockage that further inflames the infection, damages the ear drum, and interferes with the medication before it has a chance to work.”

Wellington Zoo called on Dr Garland once more for her expertise, who proposed a revolutionary solution. In June she and audiologist Flora Kay made a mould of Cara’s ear canal. This was then used to design a custom-made mesh ear plug – which, if successful, will serve as a barrier between the ear canal and any foreign objects.

“On Tuesday Cara will receive a general anaesthetic so that we can administer more antibiotics and insert the plug. If all goes well this will prevent Cara putting sticks in there and will trap the medication into her ear so it works more effectively, “said Dr Argilla.

“This is our last chance to save Cara’s ear, so we’re very hopeful for a good outcome.”

A third procedure will take place in roughly 4-6 weeks to assess how the plug has worked.

“Dr Garland’s ongoing support has been invaluable. We’re very lucky to have such a talented and innovative specialist on board to help us give Cara the very best possible treatment.”

Cara’s procedure is scheduled to take place at The Nest Te Kōhanga at approximately 1pm on Tuesday 1st September. Zoo visitors will be able to watch first hand through the window, and Zoo staff will talk them through each step of the operation.

The Nest Te Kōhanga is Wellington Zoo’s animal hospital, which provides specialist care for Zoo animals and native wildlife.

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