A snake named Jodie Foster living at Chester Zoo has made a full recovery after receiving cancer treatment in a world first.
The 15-foot reticulated python is believed to be the first snake in the world to receive electrochemotherapy, a pioneering cancer treatment usually used in humans.
The zoo's veterinary team worked with specialists from the University of Liverpool to adapt the treatment for Jodie after a cancerous tumour returned and began invading her jawbone.
"When the tumour came back and started destroying part of her jawbone, we knew more surgery on its own probably wasn't going to be enough," said Ian Ashpole, veterinary officer at Chester Zoo.
"We were facing the possibility of losing her as the tumour made it more and more difficult for her to eat, so we worked with cancer specialists to see whether we could adapt electrochemotherapy for a snake.
"As far as we're aware, this is the first time it's ever been used in one."
To operate on Jodie, two operating tables had to be moved together, and heated blankets and warmed air were used throughout the procedure to keep her body temperature stable.
"Electrochemotherapy is an emerging treatment, and this was the first time it had been used in a snake," said Jose Alvares Picornell from the University of Liverpool.
"The success of this treatment is a testament to the power of collaboration," he added.
A 15-foot reticulated python is believed to be the first snake in the world to receive electrochemotherapyChester Zoo
"By working closely with Ian, we were able to develop a plan that not only benefited Jodie Foster but will also contribute to the wider veterinary community."
Despite losing part of her jawbone, Jodie is now cancer-free and back to her "normal bright and feisty self", Ashpole added.
"A few months ago, we genuinely didn't know whether she'd survive. Now she's eating normally, exploring her habitat and behaving exactly as we'd hope," he said.
Details of the procedure will be published "so that veterinary colleagues around the world can learn from and build upon our approach", Alvares Picornell said.
