The Osseous System 325 



their retention in normal alignment. This is accomplished by rend- 

 ering the parts immobile by means of suitable splints and bandages. 

 As a rule, immobilization is indispensable, but exceptional cases 

 occur, as when a broken rib, which is in constant motion, becbmes 

 reunited in a short while. The authorities in general teach that a 

 broken bone should be set and immobilized as soon after receipt 

 of the injury as possible. I have long ago discarded this method 

 of procedure, close observation of a great many cases having 

 taught me that it is far better surgery in the dog to await the dis- 

 appearance of all swelling incident to the injury before attempting 

 surgical interference. 



Following almost every fracture there occurs more or less in- 

 flammation of the adjacent soft parts which is attended with con- 

 siderable tumefaction and pain. The application of non-resistant 

 bandages before the swelling is in evidence cannot be made to 

 diminish the interstitial effusion and tension to any extent with 

 safety, but rather serves to increase the latter, menacing free circu- 

 lation, involving risk of constriction and consequent gangrene, and 

 augmenting the discomfort of the animal. Moreover, it necessi- 

 tates frequent inspection at short intervals. If such bandages are 

 applied after the parts have become swollen they are soon rendered 

 so loose by subsidence of the swelling as to need renewal. Hence, 

 it is my practice to wait some three or four days for a reaction. 

 It may be argued that postponement involves risk of converting a 

 simple into a compound fracture. This is a matter which may be left 

 with absolute safety to the injured animal itself, provided the latter 

 is allowed to rest. I have never known such an accident to happen. 



The advocates of immediate bandaging find it necessary to 

 advise that the foot be included in the bandage in order to prevent 

 dropsical swelling and stasis of circulation. By covering up the 

 foot we deprive ourselves of our best means of ascertaining whether 

 the bandage is too tightly applied or not, but on the other hand, 

 if we do not apply the bandage until the primary swelling has sub- 

 sided, the foot may be left free with perfect safety, as all danger 

 of pressure-necrosis from inflammatory swelling is past. Too firm 

 application must, however, still be guarded against. 



Reduction and setting with dressings is eflfected in the follow- 

 ing manner : Correct overriding by grasping the lower segment and 

 .submitting it to firm and steady traction. When the ends arrive 



