VARICOSE VEINS. 575 



operation. The saphena is sometimes dilated by pressure of a 

 " bone-spavin," or by very prominent cuneiform bones. A case 

 of a very large varix on the course of the saphena was published 

 in the Edinhurgh Veterinary Review, by Mr. Hunt, Birmingham. 



The veins of the extremities of horned cattle present varicose 

 dilatations along their course in the form of sacculated or 

 knotty protuberances on various parts of the vessels ; the con- 

 tained blood is at first in a fluid state ; but an alteration not 

 unfrequently occurs, the blood coagulates, and the vessel 

 becomes obstructed. 



The formation of these coagula is an effect of inflammation 

 in the coats of the vein ; this inflammation may be slight, or it 

 may run on to suppuration, giving rise to small abscesses. I 

 have repeatedly met with this form of phlebitis in cattle under- 

 fed and kept in wet, cold situations. It seems to arise from 

 debility of the circulation, and relaxation or want of tone in the 

 coats of the vessels. 



The treatment for dilatations without inflammation : — 

 Better food, warmth, and comfort; tonics, and pressure by 

 bandages ; and, in addition, when suppuration is established, 

 the abscesses are to be opened, and blisters applied, but no 

 pressure. 



If a large varix, without any tendency to inflammation and 

 formation of a clot, should be met with by the veterinary practi- 

 tioner, the vein is to be obliterated ; and the method at present 

 adopted is to introduce two needles, one above and one below 

 the dilatation, kept in these positions by a thread tied around 

 them so as to cause mediate pressure on the venous coats. The 

 needles are not removed, but allowed to ulcerate their way 

 through. Care must be taken not to introduce the needles into 

 the vein, but underneath it, so as to ensure that the circulation 

 is absolutely cut off. 



PHLEBOLITES. 



Phleholites or Vein-Stones. — Concretions have been found in 

 dilated veins in the neck, and other parts. They are formed 

 by the calcareous degeneration of coagula, and are composed of 

 the phosphates of lime and magnesia. An interesting case is 

 reported in Moeton's work, On Calculous Concretions. 



