Malena, a 10-year-old tiger received the implant in a “groundbreaking” surgery Jan. 27, the report said. Overnight, she started moving around and put too much force on her leg.
Malena has arthritis, and veterinarians decided a hip replacement would be best to extend her life. Arthrex created the implant using a CT scan of the tiger.
A new surgery is scheduled Jan. 30 to remove the implant along with the arthritic head and neck of the tiger’s arthritic thighbone, the report said. The procedure is expected to alleviate her pain and restore mobility.
More articles on devices:
Why Florida is becoming a major battleground for orthopedics
Spine surgeon, inventor files patent infringement suit against NuVasive
14 key thoughts on bundled payments in spine surgery
