For tortoise, terrapin and turtle care and conservation
An endangered sea turtle has been released back into the sea at the Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Greece after a life-saving operation was performed by Wildlife Vets International (WVI). Loggerhead turtle ‘Valentine’ arrived at the Centre weak and debilitated, with thick fishing line hanging out of her cloaca. An x-ray also revealed a large fishing hook deeply embedded in her oesophagus.
Fishing line emerging from cloaca
RVN Matthew Rendle and vet Tania Monreal – with Archelon’s lead biologist and rehab co-ordinator Eirini Kasimati – concluded the only option was to try and remove the hook, despite the risks posed by Valentine’s poor condition.
Once anaesthetised and ventilated, an incision was made at the top of her thorax. Manual ventilation is important in sea turtles as they stop breathing when deeply anaesthetised. Locating the hook took time, but once it was found Miss Monreal was able to firmly grip it with artery forceps and gently ease it out of the oesophagus.
However, the fishing line, still tied to the hook, could not be removed. The line was cut in the hope that Valentine would be able to pass it. The incision in the thorax was closed and her recovery was monitored. She managed to pass the entire 70cm fishing line three days later and was released back into the Mediterranean.
WVI’s Executive Director Olivia Walter said: “The reason why Tania said the prognosis isn’t great is because the hook and line had been there for some time and they often cause necrosis in the gut lining. Fortunately this wasn’t the case with Valentine. We’re so happy that she was able to be released back into the
sea so soon, where, as a breeding female, she should be able to do her bit to ensure the future of her amazing species.” Funding for this was thanks to Animal Friends Pet Insurance.
Manual ventilation
Removing the hook
You can also check out WVI via their Facebook tag @wildlifevetsinternational.
The BCG published a detailed article about Archelon’s rescue centre by ALan Rees, which you can find at: www.britishcheloniagroup.org.uk/testudo/v6/v6n2reesarchelon
Adapted from Veterinary Times 19.10.2021 with special thanks to Olivia Walter and Matthew Rendle.