

SYNOVIAL SYSTEM. 271 



sel and exhalent, without an intervening gland; by t 

 dation, which takes place after death. 



Q. Why do you object to the formation of synovial 

 fluid by secretion? 



#. Because the glands, ducts, and other apparatus of 

 secretion do not .exist. 



Q. Why do you oppose the doctrine of the transuda- 

 tion of the synovia? 



/?.' Because the operation of transudation is in opposi- 

 tion to vitality, and compatible only with death in the 

 vessels. 



Q. Can you maintain the doctrine of exhaled synovia? 



*ft. It is reasonable to adopt the doctrine of exhalation, 

 because the serous and synovial fluids resemble each other, 

 being both albuminous. The use of the two fluids is the 

 same, both being destined to lubricate surfaces admitting 

 of free motions. The serous and synovial fluids are both 

 liable to be suppressed by inflammation. The synovial 

 membranes, when they do adhere, in this resemble the 

 serous. The two tissues are both liable to dropsy; and 

 finally, both fluids are absorbed. 



Q. What is the appearance of the synovial fluid? 



/?. It is a white, viscid, transparent, ropy, unctuous 

 fluid, supposed to have a peculiar kind of albumen. 



Q. What is the form of the synovial membrane? 



/?. A sac without an opening, spread on the articular 

 surfaces. 



Q. How is this form ascertained ? 



JL. By dissection, and by the appearance of the mem- 

 brane when thickened by disease. 



Q. What difference appears between the fibrous cap- 

 sules and the synovial membranes? 



