Veterinary milestone: Visionary care in Bornean sun bear

Veterinary milestone: Visionary care in Bornean sun bear! 🐻

Mamatai, a 23-year-old female sun bear at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC), recently faced a significant eye health challenge. Initially showing discomfort in her right eye, she was diagnosed with acute anterior lens luxation, where the lens had displaced into the anterior chamber, causing considerable intraocular pressure and discomfort. Immediate surgical intervention was necessary to relieve her pain, with options including lens extraction or enucleation.

We are grateful to Dr. Nadzariah Cheng, a veterinary ophthalmologist from Kuala Lumpur who flew in to perform the eye-saving surgery. Dr. Cheng successfully performed the delicate lens extraction surgery after logistical preparations. During the procedure, it was discovered that Mamatai's lens capsule had ruptured into the anterior chamber, requiring careful extraction of both the lens and the capsule itself.

Post-surgery, Mamatai's recovery was closely monitored. Although she experienced post-operative discomfort, such as scratching her right eye, there were no severe complications like excessive inflammation or infection. Remarkably, within 14 days, Mamatai's right eye had fully opened, showcasing a swift and effective recovery.

Despite some corneal damage affecting her vision in the right eye, the surgery was crucial in preserving her eyeball and managing the condition effectively. Additionally, early signs of cataracts were noted in her left eye, underlining the ongoing need for vigilance and potential future interventions.

Mamatai's case not only highlights the advanced veterinary care provided at BSBCC but also serves as a significant reference for cataract extraction procedures in sun bears. This successful outcome underscores the center's commitment to ensuring the welfare and health of its resident sun bears, enhancing our understanding and treatment of eye conditions in these remarkable animals.