Amputation for hemipeneal prolapse repeats

[DK2000]

I have a 5 month old panther who has issues with hemipenal prolapse. He gets it out, and can't get it back in apparently. First time I freaked because I lost a beloved panther in the past to a rectal prolapse (looks totally different); I took Tahiry to the vet and they put it back in. That was about 3 weeks ago. Last night, it's out again, and I cannot get it back in.

The vet told me when I was there last that if it keeps happening, they can amputate it because he doesn't need it for functions other than breeding. Anyone else heard of/used this solution? I hate to do something like this, but I'd hate losing him more. I just don't have the experience to know how to handle it.

Thanks

Dyane

 

[Jaredc]

For the time being you can put honey or sugar water on it to keep it from gettig infected

 

[ferretinmyshoes]

Welcome to the forums! Yes that is a common procedure for this kind of thing. The hemipene isn't used for urination, just breeding, so it wouldn't really affect him to lose one, especially since he has two. It's usually a quick procedure too and there isn't any follow up care. Even though it's not as severe as a rectal prolapse if the tissue of the hemipene dies it can can get infected and cause systemic illness. so it is something that's worth considering if this is a recurring problem. Poor little guy!

I don't think honey would have the desired effect. Ky jelly would be better because the point is to keep it moist so the tissue doesn't dry out. Sugar water is to try to reduce it in size so it goes back in but it dries out unless you keep putting it on. But ky jelly would be better because the goal is to keep the tissue moist and that doesn't dry out. Putting sugar on something does not keep it from getting infeced and can in fact make it easier to get infected as it is additional food for bacteria so that's not a good long term solution.

 

[DK2000]

thanks for the responses

I love this forum - responses were fast and useful!

I soaked him for a time in sugar water. The instructions were pretty sketchy, so I hope it was enough sugar and warm enough (but not too warm) water. In any case, after that I put on the KY and tried to help it gently go in. It went in partway, but still seems reluctant to go past the wider part.

Being Sunday, I don't know that I can get the herp vet today, but I try, and will keep him clean and coated until I can get him there.

I'm reassured that the radical nature of the suggested fix isn't unknown. Being a novice at anything is hard, but I'm very fond of the little guy, despite his grumpy personality, and I would like to see him comfortable and happy.

Thanks again. I'll keep you posted.

Dyane

 

[DK2000]

Update

Well, I was in exceptional luck in that the herp vet was having walk-in hours today. So he took a look at Tahiry, and tried to fit his hemipene back in the sheath. The conclusion is that there just isn't room - to get it in would involve enough pressure to pop the other one out.

Tahiry is resting in his cage right now, and will be going back in the a.m. for surgery. He did not take to the handling and poking very well (nor the first time either), so we thought he would do better to be in familiar surroundings where I can keep an eye on him over the night.

If all goes well, we should be past this problem tomorrow and can get on with growing up.

thanks for the responses

Dyane

 

[ferretinmyshoes]

That's good to hear. I hope he sails through with flying colors for you! Keep us updated

 

[lindawaz]

That is great! (Does not sound very nice in this instance)
But I mean it! the fact that he was able to see you and get this sorted so quick! Good Luck tomorrow both of you

 

[okiroo]

im glad to hear you saw a vet. best of luck to you and your cham!

 

[laurie]

Glad the problem is getting taken care of. Dyana we are glad you joined us, keep asking questions, and hopefully you will get the information you and your boy need.

 

[ferretinmyshoes]

Eagerly awaiting an update from DK2000...

 

[DK2000]

He's home...

I took him to the vet yesterday, and even the vet couldn't put his parts back where they belonged. So today he went in and had surgery. I just brought him home - they said it went very well, and he just needs a good night's rest.

He looks a bit groggy still, and pale, but I hope he'll get better quick. Time for him to start growing again!

Thanks for all the help - I'll let you know how he does.

Dyane

 

[bikesforme]

glad to hear that it went well. will keep my fingers crossed for you

 

[d3s5]

So glad to hear the surgery was a success! Looking forward to hear how well he is doing after a good night's rest.