A veterinary team from the Federal University of Sergipe has developed a cost-effective procedure for reconstructing turtle shells using synthetic grafts, significantly reducing treatment costs compared to traditional methods.
A team from the veterinary hospital at the Federal University of Sergipe (UFS) has successfully implemented a procedure using grafts for the recovery of injuries to turtle shells, achieving a remarkable 80% to 90% reduction in costs compared to more traditional methods. This innovative approach began in 2018 and marks a significant advancement in veterinary medicine for the treatment of shelled reptiles. According to Victor Fernando Santana, a professor in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, this new technique has proven effective for both adult and young turtles.
The first patient treated under this new protocol was a jabuti-piranga that suffered severe shell damage after being struck by a tractor weighing around three thousand kilograms. This injury prompted the research team to explore alternative methods, leading to the development of a procedure that not only reduces costs but also improves the treatment outcomes for these endangered species. The material used is noted for its non-toxic and waterproof qualities, which help to protect the shell from infections post-surgery.
The research team is continuing to enhance this procedure, focusing on ensuring its broad applicability across different turtle species. With the significant cost savings and added benefits of flexibility and safety in the materials used, this advancement has the potential to revolutionize the way injuries in turtles are treated, contributing to conservation efforts for these animals in Brazil and beyond.
