Surgery for a Pelican

One of the pelicans that DOW rescued after the tornado required surgery. Dr Colin Combs stepped up to help him. Throughout the surgery, we all discussed what his nickname should be; we came up with "Thurston Howell III of Windsor" (after Gilligan's Island).

Dr Combs inserting the tube by which Thurston received anesthesia and oxygen.

On the x-ray table for presurgical pictures.

Ouch! That big bruised bump you see? It's the end of his fractured bone trying to pop out.

Wrapping the wing to keep everything sterile.

Dr Combs performing the surgery.

Inserting the pin that will help stabilize the bone internally.

Thurston now has what is called an "external fixator" to keep his fractured bone in place and stable. After 10-12 weeks of healing, all the screws and pins will be removed.

I couldn't resist taking a picture of the pulse ox lead on his foot.

Surgery is done, the fixator is all wrapped for protection.

This picture shows the size and beauty of his wings.

And a final, post-surgical throat check. Watch out, Dr Combs!