68 DISEASES OF THE SYNOVIAL MEMBRANES AND ARTICULATIONS. 



repeated abrasion when lying down, especially if the paving of the stalls 

 is rough or irregular. 



The swelling varies in size from a hen's egg up to that of a child's 

 head, and exhibits fluctuation throughout. 



The prognosis is somewhat serious, for 

 here again complications may result from 

 necrosis of neighbouring aponeuroses. 



Some authors recommend passing a seton 

 dressed with some irritant material through the 

 swelling. Aseptic puncture, however, seems 

 preferable, followed by washing out of the 

 cavity and the application of a blister. 



HYGROMA OF THE POINT OF THE 

 HOCK. 



This hygroma usually results from blows 

 with the ox-goad, which cause inflammation 

 of the subcutaneous connective tissue and 

 oedematous infiltration extending down the leg. Afterwards the slightest 



Fig. 27.— Capped hock. 



Fig. 28. — Hygroma of the point of the sternum. 



injury, or even the friction due to the animal lying down, causes liquid 

 to collect and an hygroma to form. 



This hygroma is readily infected and often suppurates; it then 

 becomes very sensitive, producing intense lameness. More frequently, 

 however, under the influence of prompt treatment, the liquid is 



