WOUNDS. 417 



Catgut, metal, or thread are used for these sutures; of 

 them the first is best in almost every respect, as it causes 

 but little, if any, irritation, and will, in course of time, 

 become absorbed. It is also very strong, but may some- 

 times require to be replaced by the metal when great 

 strain is put on the sutures. In large wounds the many- 

 tailed bandage is a useful means of retaining the parts in 

 apposition with one another. 



Of the methods adopted to promote healing of wounds, 

 and to ward off ill consequences, the most remarkable is the 

 system of antiseptic surgery, sometimes called " Lis- 

 terisin.'' This consists in somewhat elaborate methods for 

 avoidance of contamination qf wounds by atmospheric 

 germs, which prove irritants, and, as such, promote sup- 

 puration. They also are the cause of gangrene. Wound 

 dressing on this system is accomplished under a spray of 

 carbolic acid and water, which is also diffused through the 

 atmosphere while the operations are being performed. 

 Drainage tubes of decalcified bone or of carbolised lint are 

 so arranged as to allow ''the drainage of decomposable 

 fluids from the wound without admitting the entrance to 

 it of unfiltered air.^' Certainly this method has materially 

 reduced mortality in human surgery, but the refinements 

 of method and constant supervision necessary render it 

 seldom admissible in cattle practice. We, therefore, have 

 to resort to the simpler means of antiseptic lotions and 

 stimulants, especially those of carbolic acid, which keep 

 off flies, allay pain and suppuration, and promote granu- 

 lation. 



All our measures of treatment must tend to assist 

 nature, and especially to keep the affected parts in a state 

 of rest. Unless we can accomplish the latter object the 

 granulations will become irritable, and the discharge from 

 them of an ichorous character. 



Sir William Fergusson, in the treatment of simple 

 wounds, preferred cold-water dressings, and their value 

 has been often noted in veterinary practice. Reparation 

 is brought about by salutary inflammation, and unless this 

 be interfered with no treatment will be required. When, 



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