302 HEALTH AND DISEASE 



vessels of their burden of blood. This will be rendered more effectual if, 

 after the operation, the protruded gut is wrapped in flannel and well 

 fomented with warm water. 



It should be strictly observed that the lancet employed for the 

 purpose is thoroughly clean, and that the flannel is well soaked with 

 carbolic solution, and afterwards well scalded before being used. Neglect 

 of these precautions may provoke fatal blood-poisoning. 



It will very materially assist restoration of the circulation if, as 

 soon as observed, the protruding mass is raised and supported on a level 

 with the anus by means of warm flannel. 



Before attempting its return the mucous membrane should be freely 



of the Rectum 



anointed with carbolized oil, and the hands of the operator should be 

 similarly treated. 



If the inversion is considerable the attempt must be commenced at 

 the end nearest the anus, where the bowel should be gently pushed 

 forward by applying the fingers on each side of the gut. When a 

 start has been made at this point and a fair proportion of its length 

 has been replaced, the doubled fist of a small hand may be applied to 

 the other end with gentle forward pressure, which will effect its complete 

 return. 



This done, the hand and arm should be allowed to remain in the 

 rectum for a short time, after which a small quantity of warm carbolized 

 oil may be injected into the passage. 



