( 296 ) 
through the mark of each fang, in the long axis of the limb, about two inches in 
length and from one third to half an inch in depth, and raise the edges of each 
wound slightly so as to form small pockets. A red watery effusion will mark the 
site of the venom. Check any slight bleeding by gentle pressure on the wounds 
and then empty the crystals of permanganate into the wounds (the amount of 
crystals the lancet holds would be at least enough for the treatment of two 
cases of snake bite) moisten with a few drops of water or saliva to partially 
dissolve the crystals, and thoroughly rub them in for several minutes until 
the whole surface of the wound is blackened : apply a bandage (and if available 
a dressing) tightly over the wounds and then remove the ligature from the 
limb. 
By this method of treatment any venom, which has not already entered the 
general circulation, is destroyed locally ; and if this is done before a fatal dose 
has been absorbed, the life of the patient will be saved. After the treatment 
the patient should be kept quite quiet in the recumbent posture, and medical 
advice obtained ; or be carried to the nearest hospital. 
