Jodie Foster the python recovers after pioneering cancer treatment

In a remarkable feat of veterinary medicine, a python named in honor of Hollywood star Jodie Foster has been successfully treated for cancer at Chester Zoo in England. The 4.5-meter-long snake, affectionately nicknamed Jodie Foster, is the first of its kind to receive a groundbreaking treatment combining surgery with electrochemotherapy (ECT).

The snake had developed a recurring cancerous tumor in its jawbone, making it increasingly difficult for it to eat. "We were faced with losing her as the tumor was making it increasingly difficult for her to eat," said Ian Ashpole, the zoo's veterinarian. "So we worked with cancer specialists to see if we could adapt electrochemotherapy for a snake. As far as we know, this is the first time it has been used on such an animal."

The innovative ECT procedure involves administering a chemotherapy drug, bleomycin, followed by a series of electrical pulses directly to the tumor site. These pulses temporarily increase the permeability of cancer cells, allowing the medication to penetrate more effectively and target the cancerous growth.

“

We were faced with losing her as the tumor was making it increasingly difficult for her to eat. So we worked with cancer specialists to see if we could adapt electrochemotherapy for a snake. As far as we know, this is the first time it has been used on such an animal.

Performing the surgery required a specially adapted operating table, essentially two tables joined together to accommodate the large python. Ashpole described the process, which involved removing part of the snake's jawbone. "She is so large that we had to put two operating tables together and essentially make one the size of a double bed," he explained. Throughout the 90-minute operation, the snake's body temperature was maintained using heated blankets and warmed air. Remarkably, Jodie recovered quickly after the procedure.

Jodie Foster the python is now reported to be cancer-free, eating normally, and has returned to her usual active self, showcasing the success of this pioneering treatment.

“

She is so large that we had to put two operating tables together and essentially make one the size of a double bed. Throughout the 90-minute operation, the snake's body temperature was maintained using heated blankets and warmed air. Remarkably, Jodie recovered quickly after the procedure.