718 
DISEASES OF THE HOCK. 
sublimate solution, and the application of a blister, was recommended by 
Ziminei in 1890. Deans has since practised the above operation (evacua¬ 
tion and injection) in Scotland, and claims to have had considerable 
success.. It probably constitutes the most hopeful method of dealing 
with this condition, but demands careful antiseptic precautions. 
Horn draws oft the contents with a trochar, and applies, in place of a 
pressure bandage, a thick layer of glue, in which finely chopped tow is 
mixed to increase its strength. Incising the swelling is not unattended 
by danger, even where full antiseptic precautions are taken, because the 
animal sometimes rubs off the dressing. Proceeding with full antiseptic 
P ig. 265.—Spavin formation on left hock 
(seen from in front). 
tiG. 266. — Spavin formation on right hock 
(seen from behind). A, Spavin. 
precautions, Qualitz, in one case, removed a lozenge-shaped fragment of 
skin and synovial membrane about 1J inch wide from the outer surface 
of the hock, and by suturing the parts, irrigating with an antiseptic solu¬ 
tion, and covering the wound with a surgical dressing, was able to secure 
healing in a fortnight. This success, however, must be regarded as 
exceptional, and should not encourage one too hastily to attempt its 
repetition. Acupuncture has been recommended by Gloag and others. 
The swelling is perforated on either side to a depth of fth of an inch by 
an apparatus composed of four needles thrust into a cork, when the fluid- 
contents escape. In five days the -operation is repeated, iodine ointment 
rubbed in, an elastic bandage applied over all, and left in position for 
twenty-four hours. 
