DIFFICULT PARTURITION (DYSTOKIA) 279 



It is not always necessary to remove both hind legs. With 

 one out of the way the other can sometimes he straightened or 

 the body of the fetus removed with the other straightened for- 

 ward in the uterus. The soft organs may often be removed 

 from the body of the fetus to advantage, and then delivery be 

 accomplished easily. In some cases it is sufficient, and easier, to 

 disarticulate at the hock instead of at the pelvis. 



Caesarian section. — Removal of the fetus through the flank 

 or median line of the belly is done sometimes, but only as a last 

 resort, more commonly and successfully done with cows and sows 

 than mares. This should only be attempted by an expert, unless 

 the plan is to save only the fetus. In the latter case the work 

 must be done very rapidly. This operation is often performed 

 on sows and is reasonably safe for them. 



