512 



OBSTETRIC OPERA TIONS. 



ing those mutations which are necessary in order to bring particular parts 

 of the young creature in front of the pelvic opening, or though the genital 

 canal, and which the hand could not seize or move. 



It is no doubt true that the sharp or pointed crotchets have certain dis- 

 advantages which must not be lost sight of, and which impel us to give 

 the preference to the cords or halter when they can be employed. In the 

 first place, their introduction into the uterus is not such an easy matter 

 as it might appear without trial or consideration ; for the contractions of 



iP^ 







this organ may paralyze the hand which carries the instrument, and 

 causes the latter to escape, or its point to wound either the mother or the 

 operator. Their employment often produces serious lesions in the body 

 of the foetus, which are certainly of no importance when this is dead, but 

 may be of much consequence should it be alive. Then, again, the tissues 

 into which they are implanted are not very firm or resisting, so that only 

 a moderate degree of traction can be expected from them, and which is 

 often insufficient to overcome the resistance that prevents the birth of the 

 foetus. In such a case, if, through forgetfulness or maladroitness, the 

 tissues suddenly give way and the crotchet slips into the maternal organs. 



