560 HERNIA 



carefully broken down to allow the contents to be returned. 

 Some of these cases may present special problems, and there- 

 fore a careful examination of the contents should always be 

 made. The after-treatment would consist of keeping an 

 antiseptic pack in contact with the wound for a few days 

 until union takes place. There is a possibility of a recurrence 

 of the condition if union of the abdominal wall is incomplete. 

 Reoperation is recommended when this occurs. 



Inguinal Hernia.— It is necessary to divide this form of 

 hernia into two classes on account of the anatomical differ- 

 ences in the female and male animal: 1. Inguinal hernia in 

 the female, and 2. inguinal and scrotal hernia in the male. 



1. Inguinal Hernia in the Female.— Etiology.— A very 

 common form of hernia. The inguinal canal in the female 

 is very short and the diameter usually greater than in the 

 male animal. During pregnancy considerable strain is 

 thrown upon these structures resulting in a hernia. It may 

 result also from increased intra-abdominal pressure, from 

 ascites, distention of the organs, or hypertrophy. Congenital 

 inguinal hernia in the female has been observed. 



The hernial contents consist of the round ligament with 

 peritoneum, or one or both cornua of the uterus. In a 

 smaller number of cases other abdominal organs may be 

 present. 



Symptoms. — An enlargement appearing just posterior to the 

 inguinal mammje; It varies in size from a small, rounded 

 mass to one of sufficient proportions to reach the ground. 

 The consistency of the hernia will depend on its contents, 

 sometimes fluctuating, at other times firm. When the 

 animal is pregnant the fetuses may be palpated in the hernial 

 sac. The contents, if no adhesions are present, may be 

 easily pushed back into the abdominal cavity and the hernial 

 ring distinctly felt. Placing the dog in a dorsal position 

 with the hind limbs elevated often will effect replacement. 

 Further, there is no symptom of inflammation and the parts 

 are non-sensitive on palpation. All enlargements appearing 

 in this location should be examined from the standpoint of 

 hernia as it is not always possible to reduce them and palpate 

 the ring. 



