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Blue-Tongue Skink Amputation and Necrosis Treatment for Long Island Patient at Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic

  • Writer: angela5591
    angela5591
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

Blue-Tongue Skinks are robust, friendly reptiles that make excellent pets. However, like all reptiles, they are prone to shedding issues (dysecdysis) if humidity levels are not perfect. When old skin wraps tightly around toes or the tail tip, it cuts off blood circulation, leading to a condition called avascular necrosis.

R A 10-year-old male Blue-Tongue Skink from Long Island, NY, presented to our clinic with swelling in his front foot. A closer look revealed a much more serious issue affecting multiple limbs. His case highlights the importance of regular husbandry checks and the necessity of surgical intervention when tissue dies.

The Patient: Constrictive Lesions

owners brought him in because his front toe looked swollen. Upon physical examination, our veterinary team identified the root cause:

  • Constrictive Lesions: Bands of old, unshed skin were wrapped tightly around his toe and the tip of his tail.

  • Necrosis: The tissue beyond these constriction bands had died. The distal tail was necrotic with exposed bone, and the digit on the left front foot was disconnected and non-viable.

Dead tissue promotes bacterial growth. Without treatment, infection from the necrotic tail and toe could spread systemically, leading to sepsis and other life-threatening complications.

The Diagnosis: Radiographs and Surgical Planning

We performed Radiographs (X-rays) to assess the extent of the damage. We needed to see how far up the bone the infection had traveled to determine where to amputate.

  • Findings: The X-rays confirmed distal tail necrosis and bone exposure. The digit was unsalvageable.

The Treatment: Surgical Amputation

Medical management (antibiotics/soaks) cannot restore nonviable tissue. In R case, amputation was the only safe and effective treatment option.

  • The Procedure:  R was placed under general anesthesia. We surgically amputated the non-viable digit on the front foot. We also performed a partial tail amputation (caudectomy) to remove the necrotic segment and close the wound with healthy skin.

  • Anesthesia Safety: Reptiles have slow metabolisms, making anesthesia recovery prolonged. R was monitored closely in our heated recovery ward until he was fully awake and breathing on his own.



Recovery: A Healthy Shedder

R recovered smoothly. He was discharged the following day in stable condition with pain medications and antibiotics.

This surgery removed the source of chronic pain and infection. We also discussed with owners ongoing husbandry strategies, including proper humidity management. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do lizard toes fall off?

The most common cause is retained shed, also known as “stuck shed,” but it is not the only factor. When old skin does not fully shed, it can tighten around a toe like a constricting band, reducing blood flow over time. This can lead to tissue damage, infection, and eventual loss of the affected portion of the toe if not addressed. Contributing factors may include inadequate humidity, dehydration, underlying illness, or repeated shedding problems, which is why early detection and proper husbandry are so important.

Can a Blue-Tongue Skink live without a tail?

Yes. While some lizards drop their tails naturally as a defense mechanism, Blue-Tongue Skinks do not regenerate tails as easily or perfectly as geckos. However, a surgical amputation heals well, and the skink functions perfectly normally without the tip of the tail.

How do I prevent stuck shed?

Humidity is key. Ensure your tank has the correct humidity for your specific species. You can also provide a "humid hide" (a box with damp paper towels). Inspect your lizard's toes and tail tip after every shed. If you see stuck skin, try a warm water soak. If it doesn't come off, call us.

Do you treat reptiles from Nassau County?

Yes, we are located in Great Neck, making us the premier destination for reptile owners in Nassau and Suffolk County. We treat skinks, bearded dragons, monitors, geckos, and more.

Contact Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic:

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