Emergency C-Section Saves Gorilla and Her Newborn at Fort Worth Zoo

At the Fort Worth Zoo, Sekani, a gorilla, underwent an emergency C-section after showing signs of a pregnancy complication similar to pre-eclampsia. A team of human gynecologists and veterinary staff performed the surgery, successfully delivering a female infant named Jameela, who required immediate resuscitation.

Dr. Jamie Walker Erwin, who led the procedure, noted the remarkable similarities between gorilla and human births. Following the surgery, Sekani struggled to bond with Jameela, prompting the zoo to train another gorilla, Gracie, as a surrogate mother. Jameela's birth is the first gorilla born via C-section in the zoo's 115-year history, highlighting the dedication of the staff to ensure the well-being of both mother and infant.