Sydney Zoo has released new footage showing orangutan Santan climbing, exploring and moving independently more than a year after undergoing a pioneering medical procedure to treat chronic arthritis pain.
The zoo says the vision shows the long-term results of a multi-joint radiofrequency ablation procedure, which it has described as the first of its kind performed on an orangutan.
Santan had been living with severe arthritis that affected his mobility and limited his ability to climb, forage and move around his habitat. According to the zoo, keepers have since observed a marked improvement in his movement and behaviour, with the orangutan regularly using ropes, elevated platforms and enrichment structures.
Radiofrequency ablation is a pain management technique commonly used in human medicine. The procedure was adapted for use in a great ape through collaboration between veterinary specialists and orthopaedic surgeons.
Dr Kresen Pillay, manager of veterinary services at Sydney Zoo, said Santan’s recovery had exceeded expectations.
“This procedure has given Santan a level of comfort and mobility we hadn’t seen in him in years,” Dr Pillay said.
“He’s climbing again, exploring his habitat and displaying behaviours that reflect a real improvement in his overall wellbeing.”
Sydney Zoo said the treatment aimed to improve Santan’s quality of life rather than cure the underlying arthritis.
Lou Grossfeldt, the zoo’s primate manager, said Santan had become more active and engaged with his surroundings during his recovery.
“Watching him climb again after such a long period of being unable was incredible,” she said.
“He’s more curious, more active and far more engaged with his surroundings.”
Dr Paul Thornton-Bott, who assisted with the operation, said the case showed how techniques used in human healthcare could potentially be adapted for wildlife and animals in human care.
The zoo said the procedure may provide useful information for future treatment options for other great apes living with chronic joint conditions, although further research and clinical experience would be needed.
The newly released footage shows Santan moving confidently through his habitat and using elevated structures that had become difficult for him before treatment.
Sydney Zoo said the recovery forms part of its broader approach to managing chronic health conditions in animals and supporting behaviours that are important for their welfare and daily activity.
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