EVERSION OF THE UTERUS 301 



uterus. However, in a few instances there will be found a 

 complete eversion of both cornua, the body of the uterus and 

 a portion of the vagina. The prolapse of one cornu through 

 the uterus usually prevents the other one following. 



Symptoms.— The early indications are the expulsive efforts 

 of the animal, which are very similar to those noted in par- 

 turition. The animal becomes uneasy, looking at its sides, 

 licking the vulva, etc. When such symptoms occur following 

 parturition, the uterus should be examined. The local symp- 

 toms after the uterus appears at the vulva, are quite charac- 

 teristic. There is a rounded enlargement between the lips 

 of the vulva, at first only slightly congested and swollen, 

 later considerably swollen and changed in color to a dark red 

 or almost black. When the organ has been prolapsed for 

 some time, the mucosa becomes darker, covered with a thick 

 greenish or purulent exudate, and in some cases extensively 

 gangrenous. 



General symptoms of anxiety, restlessness, dyspnea, 

 increased labor pains, and later septicemia are observed. 



Diagnosis.— In small animals care should be taken to 

 differentiate eversion of the uterus from prolapse of the 

 vagina or its mucosa, tumors, etc. This can be done by 

 inserting the finger around the periphery of the enlargement 

 to determineits point of origin. Further, the characteristics 

 of the prolapsed portion will assist in the diagnosis. In later 

 stages, when necrosis has developed with much swelling of 

 adjacent tissues, the diagnosis is more difficult. 



Prognosis.— Several things tend to alter the prognosis. 

 More favorable are those cases of recent development, and 

 especially before extensive pathological changes have taken 

 place in the uterus. The prognosis is unfavorable if amputa- 

 tion of the uterus is necessary on account of the danger of 

 septicemia. The prognosis is unfavorable from the stand- 

 point of breeding. 



Treatment.— In case the prolapse is of recent development 

 reposition should be attempted at once. The parts should 

 be thoroughly cleansed with antiseptics and astringents. 

 Reposition should be attempted by. gentle pressure on the 

 prolapsed portion. Patience is often necessary to effect 



