ACCIDENTS FOLLOWING PARTURITION. 105 
of the blood-vessels strangulated, then the chances are 
that the case will terminate fatally, although reduction 
of the condition has been successfully performed. If 
the womb is cold, and the vessels strangulated, it is 
advisable to immerse it in a hot antiseptic solution. 
If cedematous, the most dependent part should be 
scarified, to allow of escape of the fluid. In every 
case, if the membranes have not been removed, 
this should be done- before any other treatment is 
adopted. 
When the animal is down, and it is impossible to 
persuade her to rise, have some clean bedding, on 
which should be placed a clean sheet, or piece of 
sacking, for the uterine mass to rest on, and when it 
has been satisfactorily treated, its return must be 
attempted. An assistant should elevate each corner of 
the sheet, and at the same time should press it towards 
the quarters of the patient, whilst the operator manipu- 
lates the mass at the lips of the vulva. 
As soon as the organ is partially returned, the best 
mode of treatment is to press the closed hand firmly 
against the most dependent part of the uterus, and, 
doubling its walls, push the mass before the hand into 
the normal cavity. If called at once, the uterus may 
be returned; but if it has been out for several hours, 
or perhaps days, and the os is partly or firmly con- 
tracted, it may be impossible to return it. 
If the animal can stand, the operation is much 
simpler, on the same plan, the only difference being 
that the sheet is held by the assistants, and not laid on 
the ground or floor. When the uterus is returned, it 
