About the Author: Dr. Williams is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, and has completed AquaVet®, AquaMed®, Advanced Fish Medicine and a one year clinical aquatic internship at the National Aquarium in Baltimore. After five years as a veterinary medical officer for NOAA Fisheries Dr. Williams accepted the position of Director of Science and as Attending Veterinarian at NMLC. Dr. Williams also owns and operates the Vineyard Veterinary Clinic on Martha’s Vineyard.
Shell Game
Sea Rogers Williams | Mar 02, 2010 | Comments 2
Patty continues to loose aspects of her top shell, called the carapace, secondary to the damage caused by the exposure to freezing temperatures almost a year ago. The delayed tissue lost is a consequence of micro-vascular damage and a lost of blood flow to the shell (avascular necrosis) which resulted in bone death. Patty is on antibiotics to help control bacterial infections while a new growth, termed the pseudoshell, develops. It is not known if this new covering can restore the shell entirely. Patty is however active with a good appetite and has recovered completely from the injuries to her eyes and back legs, also a result of exposure to freezing temperatures. We all wish for Patty continued healing and restoration of her shell.
Filed Under: Animal News • Featured







Thanks, Mia! She’s hanging in there! Let us know when you’re coming to visit. We’ll take you on a “behind the scenes” tour to meet Patty.
I hope Patty gets better.I`ll make sure I go to the National Marine Life Center in the next few months