CYSTIC OVARIES AND STERILITY. 
67 
ovaries. In mares this is particularly true in animals of a nervous 
temperament. In cattle it is seen most frequently in herds which 
are affected or have been previously affected with contagious 
abortion or follicular vaginitis. We all know that such herds 
contain a very large number of sterile animals, and I have found 
that 90 per cent, of these cases are due to cystic ovaries, and are 
curable. However, it is seen in isolated cases and in herds not 
affected with the above-named diseases, and then it is generally 
due to other infections. 
Except for the usual history of sterility, we have very little 
to guide us, and diagnosis can only be made after a rectal and 
vaginal examination. One quite common and rather character¬ 
istic symptom is that the subject is very frequently a nympho¬ 
maniac, and oestrum is very violent. 
The ovaries when palpated are generally found to be en¬ 
larged to from one to many times their usual size; of times they 
are as large as an egg. We must be careful to distinguish from 
the congested or hypertrophied ovary. This is quite simple, as 
the cyst usually stands out quite prominently, like a large nodule. 
Several methods of operating are in vogue, but I will only 
describe the method which I employ, and which I find preferable 
in many respects to any of the other methods. 
The operator will do well to give his nails unusually good care 
before starting this operation; they should be clipped very close, 
to avoid injury to the mucous membrane. After thoroughly dis¬ 
infecting the hands, particularly the one intended for the vagina, 
the entire surface of both arms is thoroughly lubricated. The left 
arm is then inserted into the vagina as far as the os, while the 
right arm is inserted into the rectum. First one ovary is grasped 
between the fingers of both hands and drawn as far toward the 
operator as possible ; firm and steady pressure is then exerted on 
each side of the cyst until it is felt to rupture beneath the fingers. 
The process is then repeated on the opposite ovary, if it be cystic 
also. A little pain accompanies the operation, but it seldom is cf 
any importance. 
Very seldom is any after-treatment required. Occasionally 
