202 FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 
sulphurous fames which are the product of its combustion. However, 
mind that the air is not too strongly impregnated, though, at the same 
time, it should be so pungent as to allow a human being to breathe with 
difficulty. This last measure ought to be continued for two hours, at 
the end of which period repeat the remedies already recommended, re- 
sorting to each by turns; and do not fear being active, for flatulent 
colic becomes more difficult to remove as the period of its origin grows 
more distant. Should the affection appear to be approaching a fatal 
termination, and the size of the belly convince the spectator that the 
gas has entered the intestines, a desperate remedy remains. The situa- 
tion where the vapor has accumulated may be ascertained by percussion; 
gently cut the skin which covers the abdomen on the left side, over 
those places indicated by white 
spots in the second engraving, 
ee A hollow sound will be emitted 
when the proper point has been 
A TROCAR ARMED Nea pauneeui FOR PUNCTURING struck ; be certain of the Jast 
fact, as mistakes made in this 
operation are very awkward affairs. When assured, take a sharp-pointed 
knife, and, drawing the skin tight over the place selected, nick the integ- 
ument slightly; then take a fine trocar and push it through the opening 
which has been made. 
This being accomplished, withdraw the stilet, and the gas should rush 
out with violence; be provided with a small probe to clear the can- 
ula in case it should become impacted. The gas being released, the 
abdomen is reduced; withdraw the canula and the skin will fly back, 
effectually excluding all atmosphere. 
The gas, on rare occasions, will be generated a second time; there- 
fore the points where other punctures may be 
made are indicated; for it is never well to in- 
terfere with those openings which in the first 
instance were instituted. However, should the 
operation have to be repeated, pull the integu- 
ment in the opposite direction, so as not to 
disturb the original wounds into the abdomen. 
Puncturing the abdomen for flatulent colic 
cus paces warns tH: appomen 288 been practiced both in this kingdom and in 
seen a vteet cone foreign lands; it is by no means a certain suc- 
cess, neither is it a certain failure. It assuredly 
requires boldness to perform it; but probably it is quite as beneficial 
and far more speedy in its effects than the great majority of medicinal 
remedies. 
