AMPUTATION OF THE TAIL 91 



should be taken not to apply the bandage too tightly or 

 leave it in place for more than 24 hours, since otherwise 

 necrosis of the tail is liable to occur and necessitate 

 amputation. 



25. AMPUTATION OF THE TAIL 

 Figs. 37, 38 



Objects. The treatment of malignant, or incurable dis- 

 eases oi the tail. 



Instruments. Elastic bandage, scalpel, razor, artery for- 

 ceps, bone cutting forceps, suture material. 



Technic The animal may generally be operated upon in 

 a standing position secured in the stocks or with the aid of 

 the side line. L,ocal anaesthesia may be applied by inject- 

 ing cocaine or other drug deeply upon the nerve trunks as 

 well as just beneath the skin. The animal's attention may 

 be attracted by means of the twitch if found necessary. 

 The point of amputation is determined by the location of 

 the disease. Over the area of operation clip the hair, shave 

 and thoroughly disinfect. Apply the tourniquet or elastic 

 bandage at the base of the tail so as to render the operation 

 bloodless. 



Above the seat of operation turn the hair upward toward 

 the root of the tail and secure it there by means of the 

 bandage, B, Fig. 37. Locate as accurately as possible the 

 position of a joint at the point where it is desired to operate, 

 and with the scalpel begin an incision on the median line 

 on the upper side of the organ about i cm. above the artic- 

 ulation and carry this obliquely outward for a distance of 4 

 to 6 cm. according to the size of the tail and then continue 

 it downward, backward and inward along the side and in- 

 ferior surface until directly opposite to the place of begin- 

 ning. Make a similar incision upon the opposite side of the 

 tail, cut through all the connective tissue and muscles down 



