326 PAETUEITION AND DISEASES INCIDEXTAL. 



can be performed, but it is then a matter of great difficulty to lo- 

 cate the proper point for making the incision. A great deal will 

 depend on the experience and skill of the operator. 



Torsion &f the uterus is a very difficult matter to overcome, 

 especially in the ewe, where the passage is of such limited size. 

 The proper method is to introduce the hand into the vagina and 

 up into the uterus, where the spiral turn can be felt. After 

 deciding as to whether the twist is to the right or left side, have 

 an assistant turn the body of the ewe in the opposite direction, 

 the operator leaving his hand in the cavity, endeavoring to exert 

 his force in the direction opposite to that in which the assistant 

 is turning. "When the womb regains its natural position, deliv- 

 ery will be able to take place in its normal manner. 



Parturition is frequently interfered with by malposition on 

 the part of the foetus, its presentation not being suitable for its 

 expulsion through the genital passages, or deformities of the 

 foetus, termed monstrosities, may interfere with its delivery. 

 These are to a certain extent common in sheep, and when present 

 the skill of the operator will be required if the life of the ewe is 

 to be saved. 



The various mal-presentations may be summed up as fol- 

 lows: 



(1) Where head and one fore-leg is presented, the other 

 being retained. To overcome this condition, gently repel the 

 foetus back into the womb, and endeavor to obtain possession of 

 the retained leg; bring it up into position, and allow parturition 

 to proceed naturally. 



(2) Where the head alone is presented — both fore-legs 

 being retained — push the head back, bring up the fore-legs, so 

 peianitting delivery to take place. 



(3) Where the two fore-legs are presenting, but the head is 

 turned back — in this instance the head may be directly turned 

 backwards, or may be dropped either between the legs or to one 



