J.AMEXESS IN THE FORE LEG 149 



Affected subjects are kept in slings as long as it seems neces- 

 sary — until they learn to get up without deranging the braces 

 worn. 



Several styles of braces are in use and each has its objections ; 

 nevertheless some sort of support to the affected member is neces- 

 sary and steel braces which are connected with shoes are usually 

 employed. 



The principal difficulty which attends the use of braces is 

 pressure-necrosis of the skin which is caused by the constant 

 and tirm contact of the metal support. The practitioner's in- 

 genuity is taxed in every case to contrive practical means of 

 padding the exposed parts in order to prevent or minimize ne- 

 crosis from pressure. This is attempted — with more or less suc- 

 cess — by frequent changing of bandages and the local application 



Fig. 2H — Showing the Uolierts brace in operation. 



of such agents as alcohol or witch hazel. Needless to say, the 

 skin must be kept perfectly clean and the dressings free from 

 all irritating substances. 



The fact that tendons or ligaments which are ruptured, do 

 not regenerate as readily as in cases where traumatic or surgical 

 division occurs, must not be lost sight of, and prognosis is given 

 in accordance. 



