Veterinary medicine often involves encountering unique and unusual cases, and one such example is the case of a green sea turtle named "Bank" in Thailand. In 2017, Bank underwent surgery to remove nearly 1,000 coins from her stomach.
The story gained attention when Bank was found in a critical condition at a pond in a town in Thailand. Locals had been throwing coins into the pond, believing it would bring them good luck. Over time, the turtle ingested the coins, mistaking them for food. The heavy mass of metal in her stomach led to a life-threatening condition.
Veterinarians at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok performed a complex seven-hour surgery to remove the coins. The operation involved carefully extracting the coins and repairing damage caused by their presence. The sheer volume of coins was not only a physical problem but also posed a chemical threat due to potential metal toxicity.
The case highlighted the impact of human behavior on wildlife and the importance of responsible interactions with animals in their natural habitats. After the successful surgery, Bank's story served as a reminder of the need for public awareness about the consequences of improper disposal of waste and the potential harm it can cause to wildlife.
While this case was unusual and garnered significant media attention, it reflects the broader challenges that veterinarians face in treating animals affected by human activities and environmental issues.