Vol. 14, Issue 10 (2025)

Author(s):
Parsha J Nath, Kushal K Sarma, Bitupona Deuri, Shantishree Das and Manav Sharma

Abstract:
In the present investigation surgical management of chronic wound/ farra gall was carried out all total 20 numbers of captive elephant (Elephas maximus) in Assam and its nearby NE states. The cases were diagnosed on the basis of history of the activities and clinical examination. From the detail history, it was understood that constant friction due to the loose fitting of sitting structure (howdah) resulted painful swelling initially which turned later to either abscess or hard partially pus filled masses. Eleven numbers of affected elephants were surgically managed with extra removal of skin fold and categorized in Group A, while rest 9 numbers, the abscess were drained at dependent part. All the animals were premedicated with an IM dose of Atropine Sulfate (10-15 mg as total dose depending upon size) followed by after 15 minutes combination of Xylaizne and Ketamine @ 100mg & 50 mg/1000 kg body weight respectively. The wounds were irrigated with KMNO₄, Povidone Iodine solution and 2.5% Tincture of Iodine solution and sterile gauge bandage soaked in Tincture of Iodine was packed for 24 hours. The follow-up treatment was carried out with clean water with the help of a garden hose to flush every day followed by application of Povidone Iodine/ Tr. of Iodine every alternate day till the healing is completed. Wound/ fistulous tracts healing recorded better in Group A when compared to Group B. Surgical opening of chronic abscess with extra removal of skin flap helps proper drainage of pus/necrotic tissue debris with uneventful healing of the wound cavity.