466 



FCETAL DYSTOKIA. 



divide the tendons (gastrocnemii) at the back of the legs, just above the 

 point of the os calcis, and also the flexor tendons belovy the hocks, by 

 which means the flexion at the hock-joints will be more perfect, and the 

 leg and thigh approximate better. After we have done this, we may 

 pull at the cords around the hocks pretty freely ; but we must not omit 

 forcing the breech into the abdomen, so as to allow the limbs or the 

 stifles to become straightened, and prevent the latter wedging against 

 the anterior part of the pelvis. ... In some cases,! have known the 

 foetus to come away in a breech presentation, without the legs being 

 straightened at the stifles ; but it is bad practice. In some cases we 

 may remove the leg-bone, by sawing it through, close up to the hock, 

 and afterwards passing a cord above the os calcis to pull at, and then 

 pushing the breech forward." 



Fig. 141. 

 Hock Presextatiox : Hock corded. 



"With the Coic, the Calf is very frequently alive, and an important con- 

 sideration is how to deliver it in this condition. Shovild it be impossible 

 to effect retropulsion, forced extraction in this malposition should be 

 attempted ; it has often proved successful, and particularly when only 

 one limb was retained. 



To effect forced extraction with one limb alone flexed, the leg extended 

 in the vagina should be corded at the pastern, or above the hock if this 

 can be reached. A cord is then to be passed around the bent hock by 

 means of the porte-cord, and traction exercised during the labour- 

 pains. 



When both legs are flexed at the hocks, a cord must be passed round 

 each, as in Fig. 111. The necessary force can then be exercised. 



Should forced extraction not succeed, the limbs may be amputated at 

 the hocks, as with tbe Mare. 



