408 BROKEN KNEES. 
the surface. Sopping, dabbing, wiping, and smearing occasion pain, 
and can remove nothing which may have entered the skin and which is 
protected from the action of the sponge by a covering of hair; whereas 
by the plan recommended the dirt is removed, the part is not debilitated, 
neither is its natural energy destroyed. The last drop of water, more- 
over, is as clean as was the first, and the animal is not irritated immedi- 
ately prior to a surgical examination. 
The wound being cleansed, a certain time should be allowed to elapse 
for the horse to recover its composure. It should return to the stable, 
have a feed of corn, and be watered. Then the real business com- 
mences. The animal should be gently approached; its condition should 
be observed. If any nervousness is exhibited, the person ought to re- 
tire, and a further pause should be allowed. If, on the second visit, 
any unusual symptoms are displayed, have the quadruped led into the 
yard aud blindfolded. Leta man take up the other fore leg, when the 
knee may be examined with safety. 
Place the palm of the hand over the joint. Hold it there to ascer- 
tain if any heat or swelling is to be detected. Should there be swell- 
ing, make gradual and gentle pressure upon it with the thumb or one 
finger. If, upon suddenly removing the hand, an indent is conspicuous, 
it argues considerable effusion, and justifies fear as to the result. Should 
neither heat nor swelling be remarked, further pressure is to be made 
with the thumb upon the knee, The force should be gentle at first and 
gradually increased. If the action is sustained well, or even moderately 
endured, it allows of hope being entertained. But should the horse 
attempt to rear upon the first impress of the thumb, the result is very 
dubious. The absence of agony is far from anything approaching to a 
positive proof, as bone and synovial membrane, tendon and ligament, do 
uot take on acute inflammation when first injured; but, from the response 
thus elicited, a fair inference as to the probability may be drawn. 
Should the skin be lacerated, the probe must be employed. Such 
injuries are very deceptive. They may be much more extensive than 
the size of the wound would indicate. The probe being of metal, ought 
not to be thrust violently against every exposed part. This kind of 
proceeding can effect no good. The probe should be held lightly be- 
tween the thumb and fore finger; no pressure should be made upon it 
—the instrument ought rather to fall of its own gravity than be forced 
into the flesh. A thin piece of wire can be readily driven into soft 
structures; but where an actual division exists, no opposition necessi- 
tating force will be encountered. 
Broken knees always happen when the horse is in motion. The 
onward impulse is not by the fall immediately destroyed; but after the 
