Endometritis 593 



weak solution and with great care. Phenol compounds are 

 generally too irritant. The sulphates of copper, zinc, and 

 iron coagulate mucus too promptly. 



Of the slow-dissolving agents, iodoform and bismuth are 

 best known and render good service in many cases. Sus- 

 pended in oil, either or both may be introduced in a variety 

 of ways. The uterine syringe shown in Fig. 196 is a very 

 convenient instrument. By using the conical nozzle, the end 

 may be pushed into the opening of the uterine catheter and 

 the suspension injected through it ; by using the long curved 

 nozzle, the mixture may be readily injected directly into the 

 uterine cavity. 



As a rule the treatment for endometritis should not be 

 repeated until two or three weeks have elapsed. When im- 

 portant disease exists in other parts of the genital system, 

 it should be handled vigorously along. with the endometri- 

 tis. Thus, if nymphomania is present, no degree of atten- 

 tion to the uterus alone will give relief. The cystic disease 

 of the ovaries should receive first attention, accompanied 

 by the proper handling of the uterus. Professor Hess has 

 also pointed out that dislodging a retained corpus luteum 

 arouses physiologic function of the entire genital system. 

 But that does not mean to press out the corpus luteum when- 

 ever found in connection with endometritis. If the cow is 

 regular in estrum or fairly so, the corpus luteum should be 

 let alone, but when the corpus luteum has persisted for 

 many weeks and inhibited estrum it should be pressed out, 

 so that its inhibitory power is brought to a close and estrum 

 will ensue. With estrum the uterus becomes physiologically 

 active, tending thereby to disinfect its cavity. 



An animal having endometritis should not be permitted to 

 copulate. Coitus increases the endometritis, endangers the 

 bull, and generally prevents conception. Should conception 

 follow, the pregnancy is unsafe and may terminate in abor- 

 tion, premature birth, retained fetal membranes, or other 

 disaster. 



38 



