REPORT OF CASE. 
531 
influence otherwise offered by the hind extremities, which is of 
great significance. They become entirely loose and find a position 
deeply imbedded in the flank and extended well forward under 
the abdomen as soon as traction is brought into effect. 
In order to facilitate the passage of the foetus, I made a 
uterine irrigation of a decoction of linseed, which proved very 
efficacious by reason of its blandness and slippery property. This 
irrigation was accomplished by pouring the tea from a pitcher into 
a funnel annexed to a common inch rubber hose about four feet 
in length, which had been previously introduced into the uterine 
cavity. “By suspending the linseed, secured in a coarse bag, in 
the water it is to be boiled in, w r e prevent the seed itself entering 
the uterine cavity, which, although perfectly innoxious, is not 
solicited.” This method of lubrication, in my estimation, is nota¬ 
bly preferable to any oleaginous material that might be used. It 
is not so rapidly absorbed by the skin and hair of the foetus. 
When injected at a temperature of 98° it is very agreeable and 
soothing to the uterine walls; besides it is considerable cheaper 
than any of the oils or even lard, and can be at all times conven¬ 
iently obtained. After the delivery was effected the cow still 
manifested a semi-comatose state, from which she soon revived 
through the agency of alcoholic stimulation. From this time on 
she continued to improve without exhibiting any untoward symp¬ 
toms for forty-eight hours, when entire convalescence was restored. 
The plecenta came away soon after the expulsion of the foetus. 
The surgical portion of the treatment was perfected in one hour. 
This is the third case of dystocia dependent upon a posterior 
• t 
presentation with the hind extremities flexed, that I ever managed 
with the aid of the saw, and am highly gratified with the mechan¬ 
ical success thereby attained. I feel assured that the utility of a 
six inch saw adjusted to a rod thirty inches in length, so that 
the sawing may be executed externally by an assistant, would be 
of inestimable obstetrical service in various cases of difficult par¬ 
turition where embryotomy is indicated. Moreover, the danger 
of injuring the operator or maternal structures is far less to be 
dreaded with a saw than with a knife; hence wherever a selection 
of either instrument can be made the former should be chosen. 
