DIAGNOSIS AND CORRECTION OP MALPOSITIONS 



227 



position in order to reach the head or flexed legs. An animal 

 may be placed into any position should it further the purpose ; 

 but the cow cannot endure the dorsal position very long, and 

 contusions of the sacro-iliac articulation may follow strong 

 traction in this position. 



To correct an abnormal position the hand is principally 

 used, and the use of instruments should be deferred as long 

 as possible. In most instances reposition by hand is possible, 

 and the parts in the parturient passage can be secured after 

 reposition. With practice, decided dexterity is acquired, and 

 disagreeable complications are less liable to follow birth. 

 Cords are often necessary; hooks, porte-cords, etc., can be 

 often dispensed with. 



Figs. 27 and 27a. 



Instruments Used in Repositions. — Of the many obstetrical 

 instruments, to which new ones are constantly added, only a 

 small number are of use. Although the discussion shall touch 

 upon many useless instruments, a description of the various 

 mechanical means is indicated. 



One of the most useful agents is hemp-rope, usually 2 m. 

 long and 7 mm. in diameter. A loop is on the one end, the other 

 one being wrapped with string to prevent its unraveling. Thin 

 cords hold better, but soon cut the parts. Thin cords, of 

 course, may be doubled and a doubled noose be made (figs. 27 

 and 27a). 



Many obstetricians prefer for the head and legs a web 

 3 cm. wide and 2 m. long, or a band. They have the advan- 

 tage of being more pliable ; do not slip and cut. 



