Prominent Surgeon helps Gorilla Operation

Tambabi, a 22 year old female gorilla born at Howletts Wild Animal Park in Kent received very special treatment last week when she benefited from the experience of top endocrine surgeon, Richard Collins.

Tambabi, experiencing severe weight loss, was diagnosed as suffering from primary hyperparathyroidism – over activity of the parathyroid glands resulting in excess production of parathyroid hormone.  She required neck surgery to remove two of her four parathyroid glands. 

A member of Kifu’s group at the Kent Park, Tambabi was anaesthetised for two hours with the surgery taking just over an hour.  Performed by resident veterinary surgeon, Jane Hopper, Mr. Collins scrubbed in and was on hand to advise.

Commented Richard Collins:

“This type of operation is fairly common in human beings but no reference can be found of the procedure ever being performed on a gorilla.  I have performed numerous operations of this type but felt that it was a privilege to be asked to be present in an advisory capacity to help one of the famous Aspinall gorillas.”

Jane Hopper and her team were relieved that all went well:

“The operation was a complete success and Tambabi is doing well.  We were extremely grateful to Mr. Collins,”