Giraffe's high-risk knee surgery proves a success

A team of vets massaged the giraffe's neck during the hour-long procedure

High-risk surgery on a 500kg (80st) giraffe with a rare knee condition has been completed successfully .

Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire said one of its tallest residents, the Nubian giraffe Sahara, was recovering well after the one-hour procedure.

Sahara had developed a kneecap condition called "locking stifle", causing her leg to lock and severely limit her mobility.

"This was one of the most complex cases we've tackled," said Nathalie Wissink-Argilaga, the park's head vet.

Equine medicine was used to treat Sahara ahead of the surgery in early October, in what the park said was a step forward in the field of giraffe care.

"With no precedent in giraffes, we adapted a technique used in horses to stabilise Sahara's joint and give her the best chance of recovery," Ms Wissink-Argilaga added.

Sahara's head was supported by a wooden board during the operation

The operation posed a significant challenge due to the large mammal's unique anatomy making anaesthesia unpredictable, the zoo said.

Lying down for extended periods of time can also compromise the animal's blood circulation and cause life-threatening complications.

To minimise risk during the surgery, the veterinary team prepared a deep hay bed and supported Sahara's neck with a wooden board.

They also used blindfolds and earplugs to reduce stress, while keepers massaged her neck throughout the procedure to maintain circulation.

The specialist team included vets, an equine surgeon and an anaesthetist.

Sahara had returned to her "familiar, confident self", the zoo said

"Following her surgery, Sahara was quickly back on her feet - a moment of joy for the dedicated veterinary and keeper teams who supported her throughout," the park said in a statement.

"Her recovery continues to progress well, with careful monitoring of her movement, behaviour, and rest.

"Thanks to the expertise and commitment of the team, Sahara has returned to her familiar, confident self."