TAPPING THE PERICARDIUM IN THE DO(4. 507 



to perform and of doubtful utility. After operation the wound is 

 closed by painting with collodion, and the parts covered with a 

 cotton-wool dressing and a bandage. 



During the following days the patient is fed on milk, milk pre- 

 parations, meat juice, or fragments of raw meat. When appetite 

 returns, more substantial food and tonics may be given. 



When pericarditis is complicated with ascites it is not always 

 necessary to tap the abdomen. Once the pericardium is relieved, 

 the peritoneal exudate tends naturally to become absorbed. 



