Microvascular reconstruction of a facial defect in a red-necked wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus)

A red-necked wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) presented with a chronic draining tract located ventral to the right eye. Surgical debridement resulted in zygomaticofacial nerve injury with sensory loss in the lower eyelid and subsequent corneal ulcer formation. Due to overwhelming infection, transpalpebral enucleation and extensive debridement of the right orbit and zygomatic region were performed. After surgery, the defect was managed as an open wound for 10 days. A trapezius musculocutaneous free flap was then harvested and anastomosed onto vessels at the recipient bed to cover the entire facial defect. Postoperative complications included edema and seroma formation which resolved with conservative management. One year after microvascular reconstruction, clinical signs had not recurred. At this time the cosmetic appearance of the area of surgical repair is acceptable, and the wallaby is on public display.