Extraction of Nonvital Tusks in a Standing Sedated Bornean Elephant Using a Simple Noncollapsing Rotational Extraction Technique: A Case Report

Abstract

This case report presents the successful extraction of infected tusks in an 8-year-old male Bornean elephant using standing sedation and simple extraction. The elephant had suffered from bilateral transverse fracture of the tusks due to repetitive trauma with steel enclosure bars, resulting in septic pulpitis. Following unsuccessful attempts of daily flushing and systemic antibiotics, tusk extraction was planned. The procedure was performed using custom made elephant elevators and equine 4-pronged forceps. Postoperative care involved administration of antibiotics, analgesia, topical medications, and daily monitoring. The elephant recovered well, showing normal eating and drinking behaviors. This case report highlights the rarity of documented Asian elephant tusk trauma cases, documenting an alternative extraction technique for cases where endodontic therapy is not feasible due to lack of a healthy pulp.