AssetID: 55273001
Headline: RAW VIDEO: Giraffe undergoes incredibly complex surgery at Woburn Safari Park
Caption: Staff at Woburn Safari Park have carried out a rare and highly complex surgical procedure on one of its tallest residents, Sahara the Nubian giraffe. The operation, performed in early October, is believed to be a first for the Bedfordshire park and showcases the specialist expertise required to care for such a challenging species. Sahara had developed a rare kneecap condition known as “locking stifle”, which caused her leg to seize and severely restricted her mobility, posing significant long-term health risks. With no documented cases of the condition in giraffes, the veterinary team concluded that surgery - despite its risks - was the only viable option. “This was one of the most complex cases we’ve tackled. With no precedent in giraffes, we adapted a technique used in horses to stabilise Sahara’s joint and give her the best chance of recovery,” said Nathalie Wissink-Argilaga, Head Veterinarian at Woburn Safari Park. Operating on a giraffe presents formidable challenges. Sahara weighs nearly 500kg and her anatomy makes anaesthesia unpredictable, while lying down for long periods can lead to life-threatening complications. To minimise risk, keepers prepared a deep bed of hay, supported her neck with a wooden board, and used a blindfold and earplugs to keep her calm. During the hour-long procedure, keepers massaged her neck to maintain circulation - a vital step for an animal that rarely lies flat. The surgical team used a minimally invasive tendon-splitting technique adapted from equine medicine to prevent the joint from locking. The operation brought together Woburn’s veterinary team, an equine surgeon and imager from Rossdales Equine Hospital, a veterinary anaesthetist from Cambridge Vet School, and the park’s giraffe keepers. Sahara was back on her feet shortly after the operation, a moment described as a major relief for staff who had spent months planning the procedure. Her recovery is progressing well, with close monitoring of her mobility, behaviour and rest. Thanks to the expertise and dedication of the team, Sahara has now returned to her confident and familiar self. The successful operation represents an important milestone in safeguarding her future health and may help inform treatment of similar joint conditions in giraffes elsewhere.
Keywords: Woburn Safari Park,feature,photo,video,giraffe,animal,natural world,nature
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