Surgeons Perform First-Ever Gorilla Mastoidectomy at San Diego Safari Park

In March 2026, keepers noticed Mizani struggling to open his mouth and favoring his head, signaling significant pain. Diagnostic CT scans at the Harter Veterinary Medical Center revealed advanced mastoiditis and sinusitis—an infection of the bone behind the ear that had likely been developing since before the gorilla arrived at the park in 2024. Because no medical literature existed for this procedure in primates, the team had to adapt human skull-base surgical techniques to account for subtle but critical anatomical differences.

The five-hour operation involved over 20 specialists, including otolaryngologist Dr. Jeffrey Harris and resident fellow Dr. Kris Suresh. They performed an incision along the left side of Mizani’s head to drain the infection and remove compromised bone tissue. The complexity of the case required meticulous planning to ensure the safety of the animal while navigating the delicate structures of the skull base.

Following the surgery, Mizani returned to his troop and has resumed his normal routine. Veterinary rechecks in early June confirmed the infection was successfully resolved, with no signs of complications. The case stands as a landmark for the Harter Veterinary Medical Center, which has provided care for over 50,000 animals since its opening 25 years ago. For the medical team, the success highlights the potential for applying human clinical expertise to advance wildlife health, turning a rare and dangerous condition into a vital learning opportunity.