Faculty performs first-ever CT scan on an adult rhino in South Africa
After consulting with various parties, the decision was made to transport the one-ton bull to Onderstepoort veterinary academic hospital (OVAH) for further investigation.
The first-ever successful CT scan was done on a rhino in South Africa.
This is a milestone in the healthcare and diagnostic imaging as well as rhino conservation that was reached by the University of Pretoria’s faculty of veterinary science in Onderstepoort and Care for Wild Rhino sanctuary.
Orphaned by poachers in 2015, white rhino Oz was rescued and brought to Care for Wild, in Mbombela, for rehabilitation, release and ongoing protection.
Earlier this year, rhino monitors reported an unusual swelling to his face.
Care for Wild founder and CEO, Petronel Nieuwoudt consulted with veterinarian doctor Albertus Coetzee of West Acres animal hospital in Mbombela.
After consulting with various parties, the decision was made to transport the one-ton bull to the faculty’s Onderstepoort veterinary academic hospital (OVAH) for further investigation.
Discussions were held with wildlife veterinarian doctor Jacques O’Dell and professor Gerhard Steenkamp, veterinary dentistry specialist and maxillofacial surgeon at the faculty of veterinary science, and Louis van Wyk of Wildlifevets.com.
The collaboration catalysed a landmark moment in veterinary healthcare as well as rhino care and rehabilitation with the first-ever CT scan.
The logistical experience, information and knowledge gained from this was phenomenal progress in the fight to save a keystone species from extinction.
A CT scan revealed a tooth root abscess and appropriate treatment was performed by Steenkamp.
Oz is now back at the Care for Wild Rhino sanctuary and is eating and drinking well.
“We cannot save a species alone but together we can achieve remarkable things. In acknowledgement of the team of specialists who came together, we thank them for their passion, dedication and immense commitment,” said Nieuwoudt.
ALSO READ: Afternoon thunderstorms to cool off hot temperatures for Pretoria this week
Commenting on the milestone, director of OVAH, doctor Paul van Dam said that being involved in the first of all types of cases remains exciting.
“It proves that OVAH remains at the forefront of rendering comprehensive veterinary services to all animals,” he said.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
