THE LIMBS AND TAIL 351 



Tenotomy. 



A contracted condition of one or more tendons in con- 

 nection with a paw is occasionalK- met with, the paw being 

 deformed and the animal lame in consequence. This can 

 be remedied by tenotom}-, performed at the most convenient 

 and superficial place of \\'hatever tendon is contracted. 



Operation. — An anaesthetic is used, the parts are shaved, 

 and strict attention paid to antiseptic precautions, the patient 

 being secured on its side or back. An incision is made 

 through the skin at the side of the tendon, and a blunt- 

 pointed tenotome is introduced flatwise above or below the 

 tendon whilst the leg is flexed ; the cutting edge is turned 

 towards the tendon, the leg is straightened, and the tendon 

 cautiously cut through. Care must always be taken not to 

 wound any of the blood-vessels and not to cut through the 

 skin at the other side or back of the tendon, on account of the 

 trouble which is likely to ensue from excessive granulations. 

 The wound is then sutured and covered with iodoform coUo- 

 dion and a bandage. The results are usually very satisfactory 

 although occasionally contraction will again take place. 



The most common situations for tenotomy are just above 

 and behind the carpus and the under surface of the deformed 



toe. 



Suture of Divided Tendon. 



After severe injuries, especially wounds and cuts on the 

 legs, some of the tendons are frequently found to be severed. 

 Unless the divided ends are reunited the animal is apt to 

 become a permanent cripple. 



Operation.— \Jnder an anaesthetic and strict antiseptic 

 precautions, the ends must be carefully sought for and 

 brought into apposition, being first lightly scraped or 

 roughened. They are then united by fine sutures of catgut 

 or silkworm gut, the latter being the most suitable, as they 

 remain in position for years without becoming absorbed. 

 Antiseptic dressings are applied to the wound, and the limb 



