Medical team recounts historic C-section delivery of premature gorilla baby at Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is celebrating the arrival of its newest member, a baby gorilla named Jameela, marking the first time a gorilla has been born via cesarean section in the zoo’s 115-year history.

This achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of veterinarians and human doctors alike.

“Sekani, a 33-year-old gorilla in our troop, has been an exceptional mother in the past, raising all of her previous babies without complications. We were optimistic about this birth,” said Associate Veterinarian Sarah Cannizzo.

“However, in early January, keepers noticed signs of distress in Sekani, such as holding her head, which can indicate a headache, and trembling, a sign of pain.”

Bloodwork revealed elevated protein levels, indicating preeclampsia, a life-threatening condition necessitating an emergency C-section.

Although experienced in animal care, Cannizzo had never performed a primate cesarean section. She enlisted the help of board-certified OBGYN Jamie Erwin, who had consulted with the zoo for years but had never operated on a primate.

Within two days, they assembled a volunteer medical team comprising both human and animal experts at the zoo’s operating room.

After administering steroids to strengthen the baby’s lungs, Sekani underwent anesthesia, and the procedure, surprisingly similar to human cesarean sections, commenced.

“The anatomy of Sekani is nearly identical to my human patients, with minor differences. The steps of the cesarean were precise,” said Erwin.

A neonatologist was also present to stabilize the premature baby, ensuring her lung strength.

The successful C-section marked a historic moment for the zoo, bolstering the gorilla population critical to their survival.

However, without a natural birth, concerns arose about Sekani’s ability to bond with her baby due to hormonal differences. The zoo is now training fellow new mom Gracie to serve as a surrogate.

In the meantime, zookeepers will care for Jameela, Swahili for “beautiful,” a name chosen to honor the miraculous and historic event orchestrated by Dr. Jamie Erwin.

“I’ve learned to embrace the opportunities that come my way and use my skills to be part of something beautiful and historic,” said Erwin.

The Fort Worth Zoo is celebrating the arrival of its newest member, a baby gorilla named Jameela, marking the first time a gorilla has been born via cesarean section in the zoo’s 115-year history.

This achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of veterinarians and human doctors alike.

“Sekani, a 33-year-old gorilla in our troop, has been an exceptional mother in the past, raising all of her previous babies without complications. We were optimistic about this birth,” said Associate Veterinarian Sarah Cannizzo.

“However, in early January, keepers noticed signs of distress in Sekani, such as holding her head, which can indicate a headache, and trembling, a sign of pain.”

Bloodwork revealed elevated protein levels, indicating preeclampsia, a life-threatening condition necessitating an emergency C-section.

Although experienced in animal care, Cannizzo had never performed a primate cesarean section. She enlisted the help of board-certified OBGYN Jamie Erwin, who had consulted with the zoo for years but had never operated on a primate.

Within two days, they assembled a volunteer medical team comprising both human and animal experts at the zoo’s operating room.

After administering steroids to strengthen the baby’s lungs, Sekani underwent anesthesia, and the procedure, surprisingly similar to human cesarean sections, commenced.

“The anatomy of Sekani is nearly identical to my human patients, with minor differences. The steps of the cesarean were precise,” said Erwin.

A neonatologist was also present to stabilize the premature baby, ensuring her lung strength.

The successful C-section marked a historic moment for the zoo, bolstering the gorilla population critical to their survival.

However, without a natural birth, concerns arose about Sekani’s ability to bond with her baby due to hormonal differences. The zoo is now training fellow new mom Gracie to serve as a surrogate.

In the meantime, zookeepers will care for Jameela, Swahili for “beautiful,” a name chosen to honor the miraculous and historic event orchestrated by Dr. Jamie Erwin.

“I’ve learned to embrace the opportunities that come my way and use my skills to be part of something beautiful and historic,” said Erwin.