By 1808Delaware
At 13 years old, Matilda the mandrill has always been a standout at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. With her vivid face and gentle curiosity, she’s been a favorite among guests and staff alike. Recently, though, her keepers noticed something troubling: her breathing had grown labored, sometimes loud enough to be heard from a distance.
What began as a small concern quickly grew into a major challenge that called for a unique partnership between the Zoo’s animal care team and specialists from Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Together, they brought a mix of veterinary and pediatric expertise to solve a problem that crossed the boundary between species.
A Condition That Couldn’t Wait
Nasal obstructions aren’t just uncomfortable. For both humans and wildlife, they interfere with the most basic routines—resting, eating, and interacting with others. When antibiotics and nasal medications failed to bring Matilda relief, further imaging revealed a nasal polyp and enlarged turbinates blocking her airway.
The condition is often treated with medicine in children, but in Matilda’s case, surgery was the only way forward.
Innovation Through Teamwork
On September 5, 2025, a combined medical team performed an innovative procedure on Matilda. Using an endoscopic scope and radiofrequency energy, they reduced the swollen tissue and removed the polyp in a 30-minute operation.
To prepare, the specialists built a 3D-printed model of Matilda’s skull to rehearse the process, ensuring the tools typically designed for children could work on a mandrill. It was the first time such an approach had been used at the Zoo.
Dr. Randy Junge, Vice President of Conservation Medicine at the Columbus Zoo, reflected on the collaboration: “Matilda’s health and wellbeing are always our highest priorities. We are grateful to the specialists at Nationwide Children’s Hospital who shared their expertise to improve her quality of life.”
Dr. Charles Elmaraghy, Chief of Pediatric Otolaryngology at Nationwide Children’s, added, “As a pediatric ENT, I’m trained to treat nasal obstruction in children. Applying that skill to help Matilda was a privilege. It’s an example of how two very different fields can come together to solve unique challenges.”
Recovery and Reunion
The results were clear almost immediately. By the next day, Matilda was breathing easily without the audible sounds that had worried her caretakers. She recovered behind the scenes before rejoining her troop, an important step for such a social animal.
Her caregivers say she now often greets them warmly, as if recognizing the efforts made on her behalf. For Dr. Junge, who has known Matilda for years, that bond is especially meaningful.
A Family Connection
The surgery touched lives outside the Zoo as well. Dr. Elmaraghy’s children followed Matilda’s case closely. His son even created a 3D-printed skull at home to practice, while his daughter—who dreams of becoming a veterinarian—sent her well wishes. Both are eager to meet Matilda in person.
Why Matilda Matters
Mandrills are the world’s largest and most colorful monkeys, native to the rainforests of Central Africa. They are listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to habitat loss and hunting. The Columbus Zoo cares for a troop of seven, part of its commitment to conservation and education.
Matilda’s story is more than a medical success. It is a reminder that collaboration can bridge the gap between human and animal care, and that every effort to improve the life of one creature strengthens the connection between people and wildlife.
Image: Amanda Carberry, Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
