VAGINAL OVARIOTOMY IN THE COW 109 



keep close to the median line and above thecs uteri. If it 

 occurs, the operation may be completed from beneath with- 

 out very great difficulty, only that the ovary now lies above 

 the hand and must be drawn down from on top the broad 

 ligament in order to fix the ecraseur upon it. 



Infection always constitutes the most serious danger and 

 is to be avoided by properly securing the animal, by the 

 avoidance of irritant antiseptics in the vagina, by rigid 

 asepsis at every stage, and by carrying out the mechanical 

 parts of the operation deliberately, vigorously and neatly. 

 If infection should occur, it will generally take the form of 

 pelvic cellulitis with abscesses and rectal stricture. Enemas 

 of normal salt or soda solution afford the surest relief of 

 the stricture and impaction in front of it. The abscesses 

 must be watched and opened early into the vagina or rec- 

 tum, and the case treated internally and locally according 

 to general surgical principles. 



30. VAGINAL OVARIOTOMY IN THE COW 



Objects. Vaginal ovariotomy has been alleged to increase 

 the yield of milk and butter fat, but the evidence is not- 

 good. It serves a useful purpose in cases of nymphomania 

 and other ovarian disease. In some cases of sterility, disease 

 of one ovary may inhibit ovulation by the healthy ovary 

 and the removal of the diseased gland may be advisable in 

 order to permit the healthy gland to function. 



Instruments. Colin's scalpel, vaginal dilator, spaying 

 ecraseur, or emasculator. 



Technic. Confine the cow in the standing position in the 

 stocks secure the head firmly and pass two boards beneath 

 the abdomen and sternum to prevent lying down, and a 

 rope over the middle of the back to prevent arching of the 

 spinal column and straining. 



