The size of her abdomen was shocking, far larger and tighter than anything expected for a gorilla. Gerard gently adjusted her position, making sure her airway remained completely clear while observing her subtle pain responses. He knew that visual diagnostic tools were essential, so he asked the staff to bring in the portable ultrasound machine to evaluate her insides.
Keepers wheeled the diagnostic cart into the quiet holding bay, setting up the console near Lola’s head. They plugged in power cables and checked the connections, ensuring the screen was ready before starting the scan. Gerard unpacked the ultrasound probe, squeezing a cold layer of gel onto the transducer and warming it slightly in his hand before making contact.