Deano the sea lion prepares for cataract surgery

Houston Zoo veterinarians, sea lion keepers and veterinary ophthalmology and anesthesia specialists are preparing for a delicate surgical procedure cataract removal surgery for Deano the Zoos 25 year old California sea lion.

Deanos cataract surgery will require general anesthesia. From the results of pre-operative exams and tests, Deano appears to be in good health. His advanced age presents risks and concerns for a surgical procedure necessary to improve his quality of life. Houston Zoo veterinarians, sea lion keepers and specialists have been preparing Deano for the procedure for several weeks.

Deanos pre-surgical preparation is similar to what a human patient might undergo prior to a surgical procedure preliminary blood work, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and visits to the Zoo clinic to familiarize him with the environment where the procedure will be performed as well as some of the anesthesia equipment that will be used.

Deano displayed an existing condition in his left eye upon his arrival a year ago at the Houston Zoo. When the left lens luxated (detached) Deanos caretakers, Houston Zoo veterinarians and veterinary eye specialists began making plans for surgery. With the recent luxation (detachment of the lens) in his right eye, the time table for Deanos surgery was advanced because of quality of life concerns.

For more information and updates, please visit http://www.houstonzoo.org/deanosurgery/

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• houston zoo
• sea lion
• surgery
• ECG
• cataract

[wutUPsZ9]

Aww ! Such a sweet sea lion ! ;D Get well soon !

[PeechyofPeechy]

poor him.

[wildlifewarrior89]

Deano will be in my thoughts and prayers. Get well soon!