Does removal of venom glands expose the snake to any health risks?
If the surgical procedure is carried out properly there is no reason why a venomoid snake should have an exposure to higher health risks than an unaltered specimen. That being said, some species such as Ophiophagus hannah, Pseudechis australis and many of the crotalids produce substances in their venoms that may have a protective role in preventing pathogens and parasites from becoming established via prey items. Although there is no direct evidence it may be possible that these species have a greater relative risk of becoming infected by prey-borne pathogens/parasites if they lack functional venom glands. This question will only be resolved however when a specific scientific study on the role of these venom components is carried out.
