844 Veterinary Obstetrics 



the intra-abdominal pressure tends constantly to force the organ 

 backward. This may be largely avoided by unloading the 

 alimentary canal with one of the prompt-acting hypodermic 

 cathartics like eserine and arecoline. The abdomen should be 

 kept somewhat empty, by allowing a concentrated and laxative 

 diet and avoiding bulky foods. 



If the weather is suitable, the animal will be more quiet, and 

 will not show the same tendency to strain, if given its freedom 

 in the pasture, where it can constantly move about in search of 

 food. In many cases when the animal seems to be very much 

 irritated and shows a great tendency to straining, if it is led 

 about gently for a time and its attention attracted, the irritation 

 may soon abate. This -movement may further tend to bring 

 about a more thorough adjustment of the organ, while it stimu- 

 lates normal circulation and involution of the uterus. 



It is needless to say that any food which may tend to cause 

 tympany should be carefully avoided, or that constipation should 

 not be permitted to occur. If an animal becomes tympanic, 

 that alone may sufHce to bring about the prolapse of the organ, 

 simply as a result of the increased intra-abdominal pressure. 



When there is reason to fear metritis following prolSpse, its 

 avoidance should be attempted by frequent antiseptic irrigations 

 and the liberal application of powered iodoform in the uterine 

 cavity. When metritis follows replacement and retention of the 

 prolapsed organ, it should be handled according to the directions 

 for handling that malady. 



The truss or sutures may be retained in position for one to 

 three days, according to conditions, or, if straining continues, 

 possibly for even a longer period of time. 



Amputation of the Uterus. When it becomes impractica- 

 ble or impossible to return the prolapsed uterus or, after reduc- 

 tion, to retain it in position, the question of its amputation arises 

 with a view of saving the life of the patient, minus its power of 

 breeding. The reasons for resorting to amputation of the uterus 

 are chiefly three. 



I. The impossibility of bringing about a reposition of the or- 

 gan. In practically all cases of eversion and prolapse of the 

 uterus in large animals, it is possible to return the organ into its 

 former position and retain it in place. It is claimed, however, 

 that cases do occur in which reposition cannot be attained, and 



