42 THE METHOD OF MAKING POST-MORTEM EXAMINATIONS. 



large intestine usually contains meconium, but this may be evacuated before or during 

 birth. The sigmoid flexure is not as marked as in the adult. 



The formation of gas in the stomach and intestines does not usually take place until 

 respiration is established. If decomposition has commenced, however, gas may be 

 formed as a part of the process. 



The liver is of a dark-red color, is large, and contains rmich blood. Its size dimin- 

 ishes after respiration is established. Its average weight is 118 grams. The size is so 

 variable, before and after respiration, that it gives little information as to the age of the 

 child. Large extravasations of blood are sometimes found beneath the capsule of the 

 liver without known cause. A variety of pathological conditions, fatty and waxy de- 

 generation, gummy tumors, etc., may be found. 



The bladder may be full or empty, both in still-born children and in those which 

 have breathed. Dilatation and hypertrophy may exist during mtra-uterine life. 



Generative Organs. The external generative organs in both males and females are 

 more prominent than in adults. The ovaries are high up in the pelvis and large : the 

 cervix uteri is long; the body small and lax, resting forward against the bladder. 

 Phimosis in the males is the normal condition. Malpositions and retarded development 

 of the testicles should be noticed. It should be observed whether the anus is perforate. 



The Bones, in suspected cases, should be examined for the lesions of inflammation, 

 rickets, and syphilis. 



PRESERVATION. The various foetal tissues may be preserved by the same methods 

 as are employed for those of the adult ; but as they are very delicate they should be 

 handled with great care and the preservative fluids changed with sufficient frequency. 



