Mrs Zeus is in the same situation as the OP's wife. When she flew to her native country in South America she flown on a ticket with her married name on AA. No probs coming or going. On the other hand I booked a ticket with AC for a European destination with a Bob J Bagadoughnuts vice Robert J Bagadoughnuts and realizing what I did, called AC and they told me "Call 48hrs prior to flight and we'll change the name on the ticket" At the 48 hr mark called and no problem changing the name.
I'm thinking that a call to the airline the OP may be able to solve the problem.
Hope it helps