482 



SURGICAL APPLIED ANATOMY. [Chap. xxi. 



Fluctuation is soon to be detected, and the patella, 

 being pushed away from the femur, is said to " float " 

 upon the distending fluid (Fig. 46). 



The inflamed knee-joint, if left to itself, almost 



** HmHBBBHPHHHflHMOBJL-^v 



Fig. 46. Vertical Section of Kuee- joint distended with Fluid 

 (Braune). 



invariably assumes the flexed position. This may be 

 explained upon three hypotheses, and it is probable 

 that each of the three reputed factors takes part in 

 producing this position in cases of disease. 



(1) The capacity of the joint is increased on 



