COMMON SURGICAL OPERATIONS 227 



The hest time to caponize the cockerel is when he weighs 

 between two or three pounds. If older and heavier, the testicle 

 becomes so large that it is very difficult to remove, and the danger 

 from tearing the spermatic artery and a fatal hemorrhage result- 

 ing is greater. 



There are several kinds of caponizing instruments. They 

 may be purchased in sets. Each set should contain an instru- 

 ment for removing the testicle ; a knife for making the incision 

 through the abdominal wall ; a sharp hook for tearing through 

 the thin membrane ; spring spreader for holding the lips of the 

 incision apart; a blunt probe for keeping the intestines out of 

 the way of the operator; and a pair of tweezers for removing 

 clots of blood. The different instniments for removing the 

 testicles are a spoon-like scoop, spoon forceps and cannula. The 

 spoon-like scoop is preferred by most operators. 



The cockerel is confined for the operation by passing a strong 

 noose of cord around both legs, and a second noose around the 

 wings close to the body, that have weights fastened to them. 

 The cords pass through holes or loops in a barrel or board tliat 

 is used for an operating table. This holds the cockerel firmly 

 and prevents his struggling. 



The bird should he prepared for the operation by withhold- 

 ing all feed and water for a period of twenty-four hours or longer, 

 for the purpose of emptying out the intestine. The operator 

 must have a strong light, in order to work quickly and safely. 

 Direct sunlight or electric light should be used. 



The instruments should be placed in a two per cent water 

 solution of carbolic acid. A second vessel containing a two per 

 cent water solution of liquor cresolis compound for cleaning 

 the skin is necessary. Absorbent cotton should be used for 

 washing the wound. 



The general method of operating is as follows : The incision 

 is made between the last two ribs and in front of the thigh. 



