Surgeons at Chester Zoo in England have just achieved what they believe is a world-first, saving a 15-foot python from cancer with a surgery usually only ever performed on humans. Jodie Foster (yes, the snake is named after the Hollywood celebrity) is now giving hope for the future of veterinary surgery.
Jodie underwent electrochemotherapy following a cancerous tumour that returned following surgery, invading its way through her jawbone.
The surgery was undertaken by a team made up of cancer specialists at the University of Liverpool and the veterinary team at Chester Zoo (Jodie’s home).
“When the tumour came back and started destroying part of her jawbone, we knew more surgery on its own probably wasn't going to be enough,” said Ian Ashpole, a veterinary officer at Chester Zoo.
“We were facing the possibility of losing her as the tumour made it more and more difficult for her to eat, so we worked with cancer specialists to see whether we could adapt electrochemotherapy for a snake. As far as we're aware, this is the first time it's ever been used in one."
Unsurprisingly, there aren’t many operating tables that can comfortably fit a 15-foot animal. The team had to improvise, putting two separate tables together and using heated blankets and warm air to keep her at a high enough temperature during the operation.
To complete the surgery, the tumorous mass was removed, along with a chunk of Jodie’s diseased jawbone. Then, a combination of cancer drugs and carefully controlled electrical pulses were delivered straight to the site of the tumour. These pulses made the cancer cells more permeable, allowing the drugs to make their way in more effectively.
"Electrochemotherapy is an emerging treatment, and this was the first time it had been used in a snake The success of this treatment is a testament to the power of collaboration,” said Jose Picornell, a professor at the University of Liverpool who was involved the surgery.
"By working closely with Ian, we were able to develop a plan that not only benefited Jodie Foster but will also contribute to the wider veterinary community.”
Adapting human surgery for Jodie, the team was able to effectively remove the cancerous cells. While Jodie has lost part of her jawbone, her ability to hunt has been unaffected and she has returned to her “normal bright and healthy self.”
