FLESH WOUNDS. 297 



tion of cups exhausted of air (cupping) ; followed by the free use of the 

 actual cautery. 



The constitusioual treatment must be directed to combat depression 

 by stimulants — wine, brandy, whiskey, or, according to the latest 

 method practised in India, the injection of ammonia into the veins. 



Sometimes the skin and subcutaneous tissues are destroyed by the 

 action of some poisonous substance, such as the mineral or other acids, 

 caustic alkalies, etc. These substances, when used intentionally to re- 

 move morbid structures, or when applied to unhealthy wounds, are called 

 caustics. "When spilled upon or applied to a large surface, their effects 

 are similar to those of burns; they inflame and afterward destroy the part. 

 If concentrated, they chemically destroy the vitality of the tissues, and 

 results like those supervening on burns are the consequence. 



Treatment. — If an acid has been the cause, it is well to wash the 

 parts in some alkaline solution, to neutralize its effect as much as possi- 

 ble, and to destroy any that may be left on the surface. If a caustic al- 

 kali has been the cause, a weak acidulated solution is to be used, such as 

 vinegar and Avater, and the after-treatment must be according to the 

 general principles laid down for the treatment of burns. 



