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Rapid Reduction of Hygromas. 



In contra-distinction to the various forms of 

 "puffs" or synovial distentions discussed in the pre- 

 ceding article are the various hygromas that present 

 features of genuine unsoundness. 



While their location is always, like the various 

 puffs, at the seat of a synovial bursa, we find here a 

 real structural change. The bursa has been subjected 

 to a severe bruise which has resulted in the forma- 

 tion of a solid mass of fibrous tissue. 



The most common hygroma is that occuring on the 

 point of the elbow and commonly termed a "shoe- 

 boil." The proper surgical operation for these is, of 

 course, complete extirpation with the knife. How- 

 ever, as this operation makes absolutely necessary a 

 long period of rest, during which time the owner is 

 deprived of the use of the animal, it is often imprac- 

 ticable or at least possesses serious disadvantages. 

 It is often highly desirable to remove or reduce these 

 enlargements with the patient doing daily work. For 

 such cases and for all hygromas, in fact, the following 

 treatment is a very satisfactory proceding. The re- 

 sults are prompt and lasting and the animal can work 

 while under treatment. 



An area sufficiently large is shaved and thoroughly 

 disinfected at the proper seat for lancing the tumor. 

 All hygromas contain in their centre a cavity filled 



11 



