418 



FOREIGN BODIES IN THE (ESOPHAGUS OF CATTLE. 



(2) Reduction in size of the foreign body in situ may be 



effected in the case of cooked roots 

 when they lie in the neck portion of 

 the oesophagus by powerful pressure with 

 both hands. Pieces of oilcake, masses 

 of hay, and boluses can sometimes be 

 moved in this way, and caused to 

 gravitate towards the stomach. Com- 

 minution of the obstruction may be 

 effected by incising the skin over the 

 foreign body and thrusting a fine trocar, 

 grooved needle, or Syme's knife through 

 the oesophageal wall into the obstructing 

 body and breaking it down. It has been 

 recommended to place a piece of wood 

 against one side of the neck, and to break 

 down the foreign body from the other 

 side with a mallet, taking care not to 

 injure the oesophagus or the trachea. 

 This, however, is a very rough-and-ready 

 procedure, deprecated by all British 

 teachers. 



(3) Forcing the foreign body onwards 

 into the stomach. Where the above- 

 described methods are unsuccessful, efforts 

 should be made to pass the foreign body 

 into the stomach. This must not be 

 attempted with sharp or very resistant 

 substances, but may be successful with 

 bodies having smooth surfaces or of soft 

 consistence, as, for instance, roots, oilcake, 

 and hay. For this purpose the probang 

 or oesophageal sound is used ; failing this, 

 a flexible cane may be selected, or a 

 strong, well oiled rope may be employed. 

 Although more easy and successful in oxen, 

 Moller states that this procedure may also 

 be used in horses even in the standing 

 position. In cattle a mouth gag is ap- 

 plied, or a simple piece of wood with a hole 

 in the centre may be used (Fig. 342). In the absence of a gag, the 

 tongue is held by an assistant (best with the help of a cloth), and 



Fig. 342.— Probang and 

 mouth gag for cattle. 



