Case Study #8: Corn Snake Egg Binding Surgery at Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic

Shachar Malka
Dec 22, 2025
2 min read

Species: Corn Snake (Age 9)

Location: Queens, NY

Corn Snake Reproductive Surgery (Salpingectomy) for Queens Patient at Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic

Reptiles are masters at hiding symptoms of illness, even when they are suffering. The Corn Snake, a 9-year-old female patient from Queens, NY, presented with a history of anorexia (not eating) and increased activity-a common sign that a female snake is searching for a place to lay eggs.

The Diagnosis: Egg Binding

When a snake cannot pass eggs, it is called Dystocia or Egg Binding.

Diagnostics: We performed radiographs (X-rays) and an ultrasound, which revealed multiple poorly mineralized eggs stuck in the reproductive tract.
Conservative Care: Because the patient was stable, we initially tried to help the snake lay the eggs naturally with calcium supplements and oxytocin, with assisted feeding to address anorexia.

The Treatment: Surgical Intervention

Despite our best medical efforts over two months, the Corn Snake could not pass the eggs. Persistent egg retention can lead to fatal infection.

The Surgery: We performed an exploratory surgery.
Salpingectomy: We removed the retained eggs and surgically removed the reproductive tract (Salpingectomy) to prevent this from ever happening again.

Recovery

The patient recovered uneventfully. At the one-year follow-up, the owners reported the Corn Snake is doing great at home in Queens, with a healthy appetite and normal activity levels.

FAQs

How can I tell if my snake is egg-bound? Look for "restless" behavior, refusing food, or visible lumps in the lower third of the body that don't move.
Is surgery safe for snakes? Yes. We use specialized anesthesia and heating equipment to ensure reptiles survive and heal from major surgeries.

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