our networks
discovery channelthe learning channelthe science channeldiscovery health
site search
shop now
animal planet
 
New Breed Vets
Case Studies

Koala Car Hit
small text
large text
Episode: "Tsunami"
Location: Australia Zoo
Veterinarian: Dr. Jon Hanger

Frankie, an approximately 6-year-old male koala, is brought to Australia Zoo after being hit by a car. Dr. Jon Hanger finds that Frankie is suffering from concussion, facial abrasions, shock and a fracture of the left femur.

The initial treatment administered is general anesthetic. An intravenous line is established, fluids are administered and therapy for shock, trauma and pain are provided.

Frankie is stabilized in preparation for surgery, then anesthetized and the surgery is performed. An incision is made above the fracture, which is repaired using an intramedullary pin and wire. A pair of bolt cutters is then used to trim the pin down to size.

The surgical site is flushed with saline solution, then closed with sutures.

Dr. Hanger continues to administer antibiotics and pain relief for the next five days. Frankie makes a full recovery, and after three months of rehabilitation is released back into the wild.

See More Case Studies »

Pictures: DCI |

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTERS

Discovery Channel | TLC | Animal Planet | Discovery Health | Science Channel | Planet Green
Discovery Kids | Military Channel | Investigation Discovery | HD Theater | Turbo | FitTV

HowStuffWorks | TreeHugger | Petfinder | PetVideo | Discovery Education

Visit the Discovery Store: Toys & Games | Telescopes | DVD Sets | Planet Earth DVD | Gift Ideas

By visiting this site, you agree to the terms and conditions
of our Visitor Agreement. Please read. Privacy Policy.
ATTENTION! We recently updated our privacy policy. The changes are effective as of September 10, 2008.
To see the new policy, click here. Questions? See the policy for the contact information.

Copyright © 2009 Discovery Communications, LLC.

The leading global real-world media and entertainment company.

 
Advertisement

Sponsored Links
newsletter