798 
G. A. JOHNSON. 
zephyrs scattering germ-laden particles of dust in all directions, 
an aseptic wound means much. 
But let us presume that he has succeeded in performing an 
aseptic operation, the impossibility of securing and maintaining 
coaptation of the parts, in most wounds, precludes healing by 
first intention, while on the other hand, if he has succeeded in 
getting good apposition of the parts of an aseptic wound, can he 
control the patient so as to secure physiological rest, except in 
a few special regions? 
Accidental wounds are usually infected, and it is only by 
strict observance of the principles of antisepsis that surgical 
wounds are kept aseptic. 
In operating, I usually follow as closely as circumstances 
will permit the following lines : 
(1) Proper dieting of the patient. 
(2) Cleansing and disinfecting the field of operation, (a) 
removal of the hair, (£) washing the parts with soap and water 
{c) washing with a disinfectant. For this purpose I prefer crude 
(full strength) creolin, well rubbed in over the field of operation 
and allowed to remain from three to five minutes and then 
washed off. If allowed to remain too long it will produce too 
much irritation, resulting in oedema of the parts. After the 
first application of the creolin has been washed off, I usually 
apply a very small quantity of creolin to the wet surface and 
allow this to remain until I am ready to operate. 
(3) Such sterilized instruments as are likely to be needed 
during the operation are placed in a tray containing a 1 per 
cent, solution of formalin. 
(4) ( a ) Confining the animal by casting or otherwise, 
(Jj) giving the parts a final washing with sterilized water 
or a weak solution of creolin. I usually apply a very light 
coating of creolin over quite a surface surrounding the field of 
operation with a view of preventing hands or instruments from 
becoming infected by accidentally coming in contact with these 
parts. 
(5) Disinfection of the hands ; usually I rub my hands 
