244 LAMENESS OF THE HORSE 



ized by a fluctuatiug swelling which varies considerably in size 

 in different subjects. Except in cases of acute synovitis, lame- 

 ness is not present and in chronic distension of the capsule of 

 the tarsal joint, no interference with the subject's usefulness 

 occurs. In the majority of instances, the disfigurement which 

 attends bog spavin is the jDrincipal objectionable feature. The 

 condition is bilateral in many instances, and in such cases the 

 subjects have a predisposition to this condition or it follows 

 attacks of strangles or other debilitating ailments. Because of 

 a rapid and unusual growth, bilateral affections are of frequent 

 occurrence in some animals. 



Treatment. — The most practical method of handling bog 

 spavin consists in aspiration of synovia and injection of tincture 

 of iodin. Discretion should be employed in selecting subjects 

 for treatment, regardless of the manner in which such cases are 

 to be handled. Where there exists chronic distension of the 

 joint capsule of several years' standing in old or weak subjects, 

 needless to say, recovery is not likely to result. When animals 

 are vigorous and two or three months' time is available, treat- 

 ment may be begun with reasonable hope for success. 



The average subject is handled standing and can be restrained 

 with a twitch, sideline and hood. Aspirating needles and all 

 necessary equipment must be in readiness (sterile and wrapped 

 in aseptic cotton or gauze) so that no delay will occur from this 

 cause when the operation has been started. The central or most 

 prominent part of the distended portion of the capsule is chosen 

 for perforation and an area of an inch and a half in diameter 

 is shaved. The skin is cleansed and then painted with tincture 

 of iodin. The sterile aspirating needle is pushed through the 

 tissues and into the capsule with a sudden thrust. With a large 

 and sharp needle (fourteen gauge), synovia can be drawn from 

 the cavity in most instances and the subject usually ott'ers no 

 resistance. By compressing the distended capsule and surround- 

 ing structures with the fingers, considerable synovia may be 

 evacuated. In singular instances, no synovia is to be aspirated 

 with the needle, and in such cases the amount of iodin injected 

 needs be increased, possibly twenty-five per cent., as experience 



