In honor of Orangutan Caring Week, we want to share this story highlighting the incredible veterinary care one of our orangutans received last year. On March 17, 2023 (St. Patrick’s Day), the Metro Richmond Zoo performed a successful periodontal surgery on Patrick, a 32-year-old male orangutan. This was one of the last major surgeries in our original animal hospital before it burned down less than 3 months later in a serious fire.
Patrick was diagnosed with gingival hyperplasia, an oral condition that causes overgrowth in gum tissue. His case began as mild but became progressively worse. His gums were overgrowing his teeth which caused pain while eating. Patrick needed specialized surgery to remove the excessive gum tissue.
Since none of our Great apes have had this condition, the zoo’s vet team contacted Dr. Thomas Glazier, a local periodontist, who agreed to complete the procedure.
For one month before the operation, Patrick’s caretakers worked with him to feel comfortable receiving hand injections. With positive reinforcement, they trained him to present his arm and become accustomed to syringes. On the day of the procedure, ironically his 32nd birthday, Patrick voluntarily offered his hand as he had practiced. One of his favorite zookeepers, Kristina Coonley, administered the shot. After he was sedated, zoo staff transported him to the animal hospital for treatment.
Zoo veterinarian, Dr. Cheryl Antonucci, and Emma Enea, our vet tech, placed him under general anesthesia and monitored his vitals during the procedure. X-rays were taken to examine his teeth and gums.
During surgery, Dr. Glazier used a scalpel blade to remove the excessive gum tissue by hand. He then carefully sutured the wound and cleaned Patrick’s gums. Angie Nash, Dr. Hannah Minch, and Dr. Sam Babbitt assisted during the operation.
After the surgery, Patrick returned to the orangutan habitat and has since fully recovered. The zoo is grateful to Dr. Glazier and all medical professionals who help our animals with specialized procedures.
