226 BOVINE OBSTETKICS 



diagnosis has been made, can we form plans for reposition, 

 which may then be executed with confidence. Without a firm 

 diagnosis the obstetrician is at a loss, and loses the necessary 

 self-confidence. 



The general rules of the art of reposition must be applied 

 in each case. By it the correction of an abnormal presentation 

 is simplified; their omission may render reposition impossible. 

 The first condition to remedy a malposition is room for manip- 

 ulations. It can only be obtained in the uterus when not con- 

 tracted. When head or legs in abnormal position have passed 

 the pelvic inlet, they must be repelled. 



Should the uterus mould itself on the calf, as it occurs 

 when the foetal waters have been discharged, it must be 

 replaced by introducing warm water into the uterus. The 

 warm water, which should be of the temperature of the body 

 (Franck recommended it already in 1876), or a 1 per cent, 

 creolin solution, is introduced by means of rubber tubing and 

 a funnel. J. G. Eberhard, as early as 1793, suggested slimy 

 decoctions for this purpose. 



The correction of a faulty position is greatly assisted by 

 the liquid, as the uterus is less contracted and, therefore, in- 

 terferes less with the operation. 



Many obstetricians are in the habit of fixing temporarily 

 all parts of the body which lie in the pelvic canal, by means of 

 a cord, in order to draw them later into the parturient passage 

 when necessary. It will be of advantage to the beginner to 

 practice this method, while the experienced man need not 

 necessarily follow it. 



In certain eases, especially when portions of the calf have 

 been driven into the pelvic canal by strong pains, it is advisa- 

 ble to practice reposition on the standing cow. This affords 

 more room and often assists in defining the existing conditions. 

 Should reposition be practiced in the recumbent position, it is 

 best to place the animal upon its right side, or in a straight 

 position upon the knees. In this way tympanitis, setting in at 

 times during parturition, can be obviated. Sometimes it is 

 indicated to place the cow upon the left side or in a dorsal 



