CASTRATION OF THE HORSE. 
629 
inject hypodermically about three grains of sulphate of morphia 
to insure greater quietude and increased comfort on the part 
of the patient. 
By this method hernia, that frequent sequel of the opera¬ 
tion when performed by the Degive method, is entirely avoid¬ 
ed if but two fingers be introduced into the abdominal cavity, 
but even though the whole hand be introduced into the cavity, 
the location of the opening, together with the action of the 
skin, especially after slight swelling has taken place, renders 
this complication quite improbable. Morever, the careful 
surgeon who operates under thorough antiseptic precautions 
will by this method reduce his death-rate even in abdominal 
cryptorchids, to less than five per cent. I have operated re¬ 
peatedly by both methods and the difference has usually been 
that between complete success and complete failure. 
Castration with Inguinal or Scrotal Hernia. 
By many veterinarians castration with the above compli¬ 
cations is thought impossible without the use of the clamps. 
This is a mistake, for not only can the clamps be dispensed 
with, but their use is also neither in accord with scientific sur¬ 
gery nor practical experience. 
There is only one proper method of operating for inguinal 
or scrotal hernia and by it the animal may be castrated, or 
not, to suit the convenience of the owner. 
Castration with clamping of the vaginal sheath at the ex¬ 
ternal inguinal ring, as generally practiced, while usually suc¬ 
cessful is neither surgical, scientific, nor secure. But if this 
method must be pursued a cat-gut ligature properly applied 
is far superior to the clamps, no matter from what point of 
view it be considered. 
To apply the ligature proceed as in the ordinary covered 
operation by reducing the hernia, the various methods for 
which it is not necessary to here consider, and dissecting the 
vaginal sheath, with the testicle inclosed, from its outward 
adhesions until the external ring is reached. Then draw the 
sheath closely around the anterior border of the cord and 
with a needle pass a double carbolized catgut ligature through 
i 
