A pet mallard duck was presented with green diarrohea and leg weakness, which was getting progressively worse.   

An X-ray was taken which showed a coin in the gizzard.   After researching the type of coin, which the owners thought the duck may have ingested,  it was found to contain zinc.   The zinc in the coin was being released accounting for the clinical signs.   

Untreated this would cause death in 7-10 days.   

A general anaesthetic was given and the exploratory laparotomy performed.

The duck was ventilated via an endotracheal tube throughout the surgery.   The gizzard was opened and the coin removed.   The thick muscle wall of the gizzard was sutured and routine closure of the abdominal cavity.   

The duck made a full recovery.