Diagnosis and management of intestinal partial obstruction in a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta)

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TitleDiagnosis and management of intestinal partial obstruction in a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta)
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2013
AuthorsWilliams, R. S., S. E. Dennison, B. Dunnigan, B. Moore, J. Nicholson, K. Zagzebski, D. R. Ketten, S. R. Cramer, and J. J. Arruda
JournalJournal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine
Volume44
Start Page457
Issue2
Pagination457-461
Date Published06/2013
Type of ArticleScientific
Other Numbers23805566
Keywordscaretta caretta, computed tomography, ct, gi, ingested, intestinal obstruction, loggerhead sea turtle, rubber suction cup, suction cup
Abstract

A loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) was suspected of ingesting rubber suction cups during rehabilitation following a cold-stun event. Survey radiographs were inconclusive. Computed tomography (CT) was performed to determine whether the objects had been ingested after traditional radiographs failed to resolve the material. The items were identified, and a partial obstruction was diagnosed. The case was managed with medical therapy using white petrolatum and light mineral oil administered to the turtle in fish for 3 wk. The CT exam was repeated 2 wk into the therapy. A persistent partial obstruction was identified; however, progression of the foreign objects through the intestinal tract was evident and continued medical management was deemed appropriate. The foreign bodies were passed with feces 26 days after ingestion.

DOI10.1638/2011-0179R1.1