Continuous Sutures. 
as possible, first, however, carefully sponging the raw surfaces with tepid 
water. We have had several cases in foals, where very large rents 
extending from the edge of the mouth to the middle of the cheek, needed to 
be carefully sutured together. In one instance, owing to the motion of the 
‘cheeks in mastication, the wounded surfaces had to be again sewn up, as- 
the sutures all became loosened ina few days; and in another case three 
successive suturings by the interrupted method, were required at intervals of 
about a week, before the tissues grew firmly together. 
For suturing we often use medicated strong twine or silk, but in some 
instances silver wire is to be preferred. In these operations, one should 
commence the stitch about half an inch to an inch, varying with the thick- 
ness of the lips of the wound, from each edge, and should not be afraid of 
passing the needle pretty deeply, so as to obtain a sufficient hold. Asarule, 
the stitches should be about half an inch to an inch or so from each 
other; and one should be careful to bring the corresponding parts of the 
severed tissues into close apposition with one another. When the sutures 
have been carefully made, we may bathe the tissues with a bland unirritating 
antiseptic lotion, or may anoint the part with a little ointment. A lotion of 
boric acid is very useful. This may be made of boric acid, one part ; 
hot water, twenty parts. Dissolve, and when cold, use the clear solution. A 
lotion of boroglyceride, made of one part of this preparation with thirty parts 
of water, is likewise very efficient. A very useful ointment of boric acid 
may be made of six parts of vaseline to one of the acid. After dressing the 
wound, it may, if necessary, be carefully bandaged; but this will seldom be 
requisite. No fomentation should on any account be applied, so long as the 
wound remains free from:inflammatory action; but the surfaces may be 
bathed with the lotion once daily, or more frequently. The sutures may be. 
removed in about eight to twelve days after being inserted. 
"Having now disposed of the different methods of suturing, let us turn to 
consider more closely some points regarding the antiseptic treatment of 
wounds. We have here especially recommended lotions and ointment of 
boric acid in preference to carbolic acid, because they are much less 
irritating, when applied to recent wounds. Nevertheless, carbolic acid 
