Episode: "Forensics"
Location: University of Georgia
Veterinarian: Dr. Stephen J. Hernandez-Divers

Dr. Stephen J. Hernandez-Divers from the University of Georgia is working with the U.S. Fisheries and Wildlife Service on an endangered species program with short-nosed sturgeon fish. The joint project involves delicate birth control surgery on captive-bred individuals.

To save the species from extinction, the U.S. Fisheries and Wildlife Service is releasing captive-bred, sterilized fish into wild populations to ascertain habitat viability, adult mortality rates and distribution while maintaining the integrity of the wild population's gene pool.

In this case study, Dr. Hernandez-Divers anesthetizes a short-nosed sturgeon by simply adding anesthetic to its water.

Once the fish is unconscious, Dr. Hernandez-Divers inserts an endoscope through its outer skin. The endoscope is fitted with a small camera that allows him to see precisely where he is working.

The next step is to insert a small syringe and inflate the swim bladder — the organ the fish uses to control buoyancy.

A second endoscope is inserted after the ovary is located. As Dr. Hernandez-Divers cuts the ovaries free the incision is simultaneously cauterized to seal the wound and prevent blood loss.

The whole organs are extracted in one piece through another small incision. The ovarian tubes are then tied to prevent any possibility of eggs being released.

The tiny, keyhole incisions are then stitched and the fish is returned to a recovery aquarium.

See More Case Studies »