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Koala Car Hit

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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.

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