INGUINAL HERNIA. 385 



— in one case they were found an inch in thickness — that for the clams 

 we shall be compelled to substitute a strong waxed ligature for the com- 

 pression of the cord, which must be fastened by a running knot. 



In the case of Sarcocele the operator must be guided by circumstances. 

 Should the tumoiir consist of intestine principally, the operation is to be 

 Conducted the same as for thickened membranes. Sarcocele may render 

 the tumour so solid and compact as to deprive it of every sign or feel of 

 containing intestine ; and should the operator neglect to explore the 

 ring, this concealment may lead him into fatal error, in case he might 

 determine on the removal of the sarcocele. Whenever intestine is de- 

 tected, he must take care to make himself sure about its return before he 

 ventures to apply either clams or ligature to the sarcocelatous swelling. 



Adhesions between the hernial gut and its sac are so rare that M. 

 Girard has seen but one instance of their occurrence ; though it would 

 appear, from what has been already stated on the authority of Mr. 

 Charles Percivall, that between the testicle and its vaginal covering they 

 are by no means uncommon. When adhesions of the first kind do occur, 

 it becomes necessary to open the sac in order to destr^ them, before the 

 reduction can be accomplished : a case wherein the clams will have to be 

 applied upon the bare cord. 



In the cases of Stoppage and Strangulation herniotomy becomes neces- 

 sary, and must be practised without delay ; otherwise, scrotal hernia in 

 general admits of time for deciding on the operation, and for preparation 

 for it by dieting, bloodletting, &c. 



After the Operation^ the veterinarian will, besides enjoining a low and 

 appropriate diet, bleed and purge and administer injections, according 

 as the case may seem to require. The animal had better stand with his 

 croup elevated, and be tied up so that he cannot lie down. 



A CASE OF Scrotal Hernia of extraordinary magnitude 

 is related by Mr. Marshall, V.S., Dungannon, in ^ The Ve- 

 terinarian' for 1854 (p. 83). The subject of it was a 

 stallion, and the hernia appeared to have had its origin in 

 the act of covering, when one of his hind legs slipped into a 

 ditch, for some time after which he '' appeared rather dull.'' 

 And '^ the swelling continued to increase in volume," and 

 at this time "hangs nearly down to his hocks." It is on 

 the left side. First warning the proprietor of the danger of 

 the operation required, '^ I operated a testicule convert on 

 the affected side, the other testicle being removed in the 

 ordinary way. I then inserted two strong metallic sutures 

 above the clam, as close to the abdomen as possible. The 



II. 25 



