Eye-Opening Success!
When a veterinarian faces a difficult medical case, the patient’s cooperation is often just as important as the severity of the disease. But what happens when your patient is a month-old Reticulated giraffe calf?
A case report, co-authored and recently presented by Dr. Kanyon McLean of Global Wildlife Center (co-authored by Dr. Gabe Van Brunt of Southern Veterinary Eye Care, Mandeville, LA) at the 2025 Zoological Association of America conference, details a fascinating and successful approach to treating a severe eye infection in the tallest species on Earth.
The Patient and the Problem
The subject of this report is Obi, a young male Reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata), a species listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Obi presented with a closed right eye, and upon brief visual examination, it was determined he had a severely infected cornea (the clear protective layer of the eye). Dr. Kanyon initiated standard topical therapy while awaiting an ophthalmology consult with Dr. Van Brunt, DACVO. Under deep sedation, Obi’s eye was evaluated and revealed a deep stromal ulcer, meaning the infection had penetrated almost all the way through the cornea and was approaching the sensitive anterior chamber of the eye. This type of infection, if left untreated, can lead to rupture of the eye and permanent vision loss.
The Challenge
For any condition that requires intense monitoring, hands-on intervention, and multiple topical medications +/- surgical intervention, a giraffe’s size and temperament can create safety risks and treatment challenges. Even newborn giraffe calves stand around 6 ft tall! Patient safety and welfare along with staff safety were critical components for deciding on an effective treatment plan. A one-and-done therapeutic approach with minimal need for intense monitoring and hands-on care was ideal.
The Innovative Solution: Equine-Derived Amniotic Lens
The team opted for a two-part solution requiring only deep sedation:
1. Placement of an Equine-Derived Amniotic Lens: A biological graft derived from equine (horse) amniotic membrane was placed over the infected cornea. This specialized lens provides structural support to the weakened cornea and is rich in growth factors and anti-inflammatory properties, significantly boosting the natural healing process.
2. Temporary Tarsorrhaphy: The eyelids were temporarily sutured shut (a tarsorrhaphy) to protect the healing eye and keep the lens in place while it integrated with the healing tissue.
The entire procedure was completed safely and successfully.
A Successful Outcome
The strategy proved to be highly effective:
· Resolution: The corneal ulcer and infection resolved in just five weeks without the need for daily hands-on therapy. Also, Obi was able to remain with his mother for the entire healing process.
· Removal: The sutures were removed once the cornea was healed, revealing a transparent cornea with only mild scarring.
· Long-Term: At a recent one-year follow-up, examination showed that Obi is doing wonderfully. The eye had only a mild focal scar. Obi maintained vision in his right eye and remains well-integrated within the herd.
In the year since his treatment, Obi has proven to be a friendly and curious young male, often spotted visiting tours with his half-siblings, Frannie and Pax. Obi has also taken to painting, eagerly approaching private PINZ tours to help guests make one-of-a-kind Safari Souvenirs. You could even say that Obi has an eye for artwork!
Significance for Exotic Animal Medicine
This case report highlights a successful, minimally invasive treatment option for veterinary professionals managing large, exotic, or otherwise unmanageable species. Dr. Kanyon and Dr. Van Brunt hope that demonstrating this safe and effective option will encourage facility managers and veterinarians of similar species to follow the path Global Wildlife Center has paved and think outside-the-box when faced with complex eye conditions.