194 OPERATIVE TECHNIQUE. 



chiefly by improving blood and lymph circulation and increasing 

 metabolic changes. 



Massage being applicable in a large number of animal diseases and 

 their sequelae, we may briefly consider those in which it seems more 

 particularly indicated. In infiltration of the cornea with milky deposit, 

 not due to cicatricial formation, massage is applied in the form of circular 

 and radiating rubbing. As horses with disease of the eye usually 

 resist interference, it is necessary to proceed with caution. The hand 

 is first passed over the side of the face furthest removed from the eye 

 and gently advanced more and more closely to the diseased eye. 

 Placing the points of the index and middle fingers ver}' lightly on 

 the upper eyehd the lid is caused to move over the surface of the 

 cornea with circular and radiating movements. Very good results may 

 be obtained in this way alone, but a small quantity of some resorptive 

 ointment, like the yellow or red oxide of mercury ointment, may, in 

 addition, be introduced into the conjunctival sac. Bayer also recom- 

 mends iodoform ointment and iodoform in powder. 



Massage is particularly valuable in inflammation of tendons and in 

 recent cases of thickening of the tendon, but only when the condition 

 is circumscribed. When the entire tendon is thickened the effect is 

 much less satisfactory. On the other hand, excellent results may be 

 obtained in thickening of the flexor pedis perforans, though considerable 

 patience and perseverance are required. The foot being lifted, the 

 upper part of the thickened spot is grasped between the thumb and 

 fingers and kneaded, at first very gently, afterwards more strongly, but 

 without excessive pressure. The operator gradually works further 

 down. Manipulation being complete, the horse is exercised for a short 

 time and a wet bandage applied. 



In dispersing the soft enlargement resulting from periarthritis the 

 thumbs are most employed. The periphery is first manipulated, the 

 thumb being applied to the soft tissue with considerable pressure. 

 This tends to break up the soft deposit, which is then further dispersed 

 by powerful stroking movements with the thumb. The horse is after- 

 wards exercised. Passive movement of the joint can only be carried 

 out satisfactorily in small animals. 



Vogel recommends massage in various diseases of the udder.' Old 

 practitioners appear to have recognised its good effects, as shown by 

 their advising frequent milking, which really acts as a kind of massage. 

 Vogel, however, lays stress on the suggestion that the veterinary 

 surgeon himself should first carry out the operation, because rough or 

 excessive manipulation often causes a relapse. The hard masses of 

 tissue are grasped and kneaded or rolled under the fingers. This 



