Veterinarian Kate Freeman Praises Corrective Ophthalmic Surgery on Elephant

Online, August 3, 2012 (Newswire.com) - ABCNews reports that C'Sar, an African bull elephant at the North Carolina Zoo, is doing well after undergoing two surgeries to remove cataracts. Officials say that he may, in the future, need innovative contact lenses to improve his vision, but the surgeries, for now, appear to have improved his sight significantly. Kate Freeman, DVM, understands what a major undertaking these surgeries have been. As such, she praises the professionals who have collaborated on this project, working together to give this elephant his sight back.

According to the article, C'Sar's vision problems were causing other conditions, such as lethargy and depression. When he was diagnosed with cataracts in 2010, professionals at the North Carolina Zoo reported that he had lost 1,000 pounds and was not able to navigate the 7.5 acre land on which his exhibit is situated.

Eventually, the zoo keepers made the decision to remove C'Sar from his exhibit in March of 2011 due to the deterioration of his vision. "They would throw food in front of him, and he couldn't even see it," remarks Rod Hackney, North Carolina Zoo's Public Relations Manager.

The first surgery to remove the cataracts took place in October of 2011. After nearly a year of being out of his exhibit, C'Sar had to undergo a second surgery. Although his vision has improved, the article reports that he is now farsighted-but he has gained weight and his depression has subsided.

Kate Freeman, DVM, applauds the work that the team has done to correct C'Sar's vision. As a veterinary professional, she understands how much time and effort was put into these surgeries-and how many professionals had to come together in order for them to succeed.

"By removing his vision-altering cataracts, Dr. McMullen and the NC State veterinary ophthalmology team have aided C'Sar's quality of life tremendously through their surgical expertise," remarks veterinarian Kate Freeman. "Due to a substantial combined effort on behalf of the NC State zoo keepers, zoo veterinary team, the ophthalmologists, and anesthesiologists, C'Sar will have much improved vision. These collaborative procedures are key in improving animal welfare in zoo and wildlife settings."

Kate Freeman, DVM, hopes that C'Sar's health continues to progress. She believes that this case is a perfect example of how veterinary professionals can come together to enhance the quality of life for an animal.

ABOUT:

Kate Freeman, DVM, offers high quality animal care through her practice of veterinary medicine. With accessible, reliable treatment options, Kate Freeman, DVM, provides a way for pet owners to take proper preventative and reactive care of their animals. In addition to the work that she completes in the veterinary office, Kate Freeman, DVM, is active in assisting organizations that offer veterinary care through rural and wildlife clinics.