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LIBRARY

NEW YORK STATE VETERINARY COLLEGE
ITHACA, NEW YORK

   

 

 
Cornell University Library
SF 889.L14

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Date Due
MAR 10 1956
JAN 15 1959

 

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PRINTED |/IN U.S. A.
VETERINARY MEDICINE SERIES
No. 8

ANIMAL CASTRATION

BY
J. V. LACROIX, D.V.S.

Professor of Surgery, The Kansas City Veterinary College

ILLUSTRATED

Chicago
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
1915

tye
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fy

CopyricHT 1915
By
D. M. Cawprenn

 
PREFACE

This work is not intended for those unacquainted
with anatomy, restraint of animals, principles of sur-
gery and asepsis. It is assumed that the student is
familiar with anatomy, and no attempt at such in-
struction has been made. However, anatomy is treated
in sufficient detail for accurate description of the tech-
nie pertaining to the various operations considered.
The reader’s familiarity with the restraint of animals
being presupposed, tedious recital of modes of restraint
has been omitted; but the kind of restraint that will
best serve any given operation has been indicated.
Since a good working knowledge of the principles of
surgery and asepsis is necessary to comprehend the
text, frequent reminders that instruments should be
boiled and the operator’s hands washed, have been
purposely avoided. The selection of instruments is a
matter of individual choice or custom, and, therefore,
naming the instruments required for each operation
described, has been intentionally omitted.

This volume is a résumé of observations made during
ten years’ experience in the castration of animals. In
considering the technic of operations, where more than
one method is in vogue, the one that has proved the
most practicable has been described.

The sections on equine umbilical hernia and cesarean
operation in the sow have been included because these
cases command much of the veterinarian’s attention
during the season of castration.

J. V. L.

October, 1915.
CONTENTS

PAGE
Last. of . Whastrationss so s<acvese ers nates eee ys Swe bY Be Nes il
Vutroduction, e4.40-s2 nou 8s adidades s¥5 G2 508 Meese wa LES ees 9
PART I
Castration of Males
SECTION I.
Preliminary Measures ...cccsc0s iccec sas cane vacd eae einen 15
SECTION II.
Anatomy of the Structures Directly Involved............. 23
SECTION III.
Methods of CastratiOns «ss aceacs anew aya tae ne Bae we Bae wg sO 25
SECTION IV.
Castration. of the Horse... ajo ae vee sain teseibe eae aes ables 29
SECTION V.
Castration of the: Boss... ciccndas se oes eevee nee oes MES BOSS 59
SECTION VI.
Castration, Of Sheeps wai visa an ree te sag means aie Cy gieane ee 73
SECTION VII.
Castration- Of SwitGniaes seid a dunce madam cals oe kaa eee Bac 75
SECTION VIII.
Castration of Dogs and Cats......... 0... cece cece eee 83
SECTION IX.
Castration Of Bit dS vissiade sus cictes gs Gaed ma aaa keene ess 87
CONTENTS—Continued

PART II
Castration of Females

SECTION I.

Vaginal Ovariotomy of the Mare........... 0... ee eee ees

SECTION II.

Vaginal Ovariotomy of the Cow..... 0.0... cee ee eee

SECTION III.

Castration: Of: Herter nx iguana teas oo daen.G ee bade a quecas

Castration, of Sows sce se aees aoe ees per sees cee Seas

SECTION VY.
Castration of the Dog (Spaying)...............00. eee eee

SECTION VI.
Castration of the Cat (Spaying)....cc.ss.e26.0cee00 cosas

APPENDIX.
Equine Umbilical Berita se cccccsas ane se nwa nas ca Gases
Cesarean Section in the Sow........... eee eee ee cee eee

METH OSS ab ees orth Sas Sid wiiecen Banastthen aS sieods wre e ens bg eas SO aaee ee hy A debe
ILLUSTRATIONS

FIGURE PAGE
1. A Castrating Knife with Convex Cutting Edge....... 15
2. A Castrating Knife Having a Hooked Blade.......... 16
S= Emaseulatot ey cease cen y s sidenaaokyose als bu Gidea! peels 16
ALS SH OTAS OUR: acct vida chesioatlaa tank cues eaves ne. Neue Mesias Aelae 17
5. Castration of the Colt in a Standing Position......... 19
6. Restraint for Castrating Colts...............0000 eee 20
7. The ‘‘Covered Operation’’?.............. 00. cee eee ee 27
8. A Modification of the ‘‘Covered Operation’’.......... 31
9. Restraint for Cryptorehid Castration................. 40
10. Genital Organs of the Bull................... 00.0008 GO
11. Castrating the Young Calf............... 0... cee eee 61
12. Restraint of Calf in Standing Position for Castration.. 62
13. Showing Position of Operator, Also Lines of Incision.. 63
14. Rueff’s Method of Casting...................0 00 eee 65
15. Showing Manner of Restraint of Male Cut for Cas-
BUALIOM (ip) sob Gc chain So dates ee ae Stina aha Gee aT a wees 84
16. A. Form of Hippo-Wasso..4 2 cc ea es twee ee ed aed earns 91
1% Restraint for Spaying. sa. ceaerss cen pwarve genes away 106
Is. Median Line Incision for Spaying................... 108

19.
20.

21.

tw
te

The Ovary Within the Grasp of the Spaying Forceps.. 11]
Completing the Process of Limited Torsion for Ampu-

tation, of the Ovarye: cosasccsanes werer ae ies nn ses wees 112
Suture for Coaptation of the Peritoneum and Abdom-

AL MMS CIES: sca cccegutn eed da 4 elite eae ild Sn aes 113
Method of Tying Continuous Suture.................. 114
Flank Incision for Spaying the Cat.................. 121

7
INTRODUCTION

History

Castration of animals was practiced by the ancients
as there is occasional mention of it in literature, but
it is doubtful if this operation was performed on ani-
mals before it was practiced on the human. There is
frequent allusion to castration or to one castrated in
many literary works and data on this operation as
practiced upon the human subject are readily obtained.

We quote from A Reference Handbook of the Medi-
cal Sciences, Vol. II, page 710: ‘‘Castration is a very
ancient practice. It was a consequence of the system
of polygamy. The word Eunuch means literally hav-
ing charge of the bed chamber. The Hebrew word
means mutilated, and the first royal chamberlains were
probably castrated men. Later the term eunuch was
applied to men in all sorts of offices and it lost its
original meaning.”’

‘‘Herodotus relates that the castration of slaves was
an industry among the Greeks. These slaves brought
a high price in the markets of Ephesus. Early records
of castration in China date back to 1100 B. C. Next
to beheading it was at one time the most severe form
of punishment.’’

Object

Reasons for the castrating of animals may be divided
into two general classes. First, for economic purposes;
making it possible to keep and work animals of both

9
10 ANIMAL CASTRATION

sexes together without difficulty, which would be im-
possible if the males were left entire; to regulate the
reproductive numbers and thereby seek to elevate the
standard of any given species; and to obviate dangers
of accidents and injuries occasioned by the instinctive
combat between males. The second reason for animal
castration is to work for the otherwise impossible cor-
rection of certain pathological conditions, such as in-
fectious orchitis, and in some eases of strangulated
hernia of the breeding male.

Castration has a marked effect upon the conforma-
tion of animals and viewed from the economical stand-
point, this result is beneficial. Conformation is mate-
rially altered, and where the animal is castrated at an
early age, the type is not so strongly developed as in
the case of the unaltered subject. Geldings do not
possess the physical maturity of stallions, being less
powerful in appearance and lacking the large, mas-
culine facial features of the stallion. The neck is more
slender, the crest somewhat undeveloped, and the mus-
cularity of the breast and forearms is not so pro-
nounced,—in short, the entire body partakes of a finer
and more feminine type. A similar but less observable
condition occurs with respect to the unsexed female.
This is true, in varying degrees, of all animals.

The character of the flesh of a castrated animal is
also materially different from that of the uneastrated,
the flesh of the steer having a better flavor and being
more tender and edible than that of a bull. This is
particularly noticeable in the flesh of swine,—the meat
of the entire male hog or one castrated after attaining
maturity, having a characteristic odor and being not
really palatable.

The flow of milk is said to be appreciably prolonged
in cows that have been spayed, but it is doubtful if
INTRODUCTION 11

the quality of the milk is improved in the least. In
those instances where it is undesirable or inconvenient
to breed milk cows, the estral period interferes materi-
ally with lactation at each revular recurrence. In such
eases spaying is advisable.

The best age for castrating the various species is a
much-debated question, as many circumstances govern,
in a measure, the decision in different cases. It is gen-
erally conceded that a colt is best castrated between
the ages of nine and twenty-four months, though some
stock owners are firmly of the opinion that colts should
not be altered until they are two years of age, claiming
that this delay enables the animals to attain better
physical development. While this may be true in cer-
tain cases, yet in the average thrifty colt, particularly
of the draft breeds, the gain in certain parts of the
physique is offset by pronounced undesirable charac-
teristics which manifest themselves because of late
castration. The vigorous draft colt castrated at the
age of two years may possess a hetter developed head,
neck and fore quarters than does the one operated on
at a year of age, yet the croup and hind quarters of
the first, are not developed in proportion to the fore
quarters, there resulting an asymmetrical conforma-
tion. Because of the fact that the testicles normally
descend at or soon after birth in the normal foal, in a
few cases the inguinal canal remains somewhat lax and
loose, making castration of a foal during his carlier
months, an unsafe procedure, as hernia and even even-
tration may result. Under average normal conditions
the best age for castrating colts is between nine and
twelve months. Males of the bovine species are best
castrated when very young, and since the operation
apparently causes the subject a minimum degree cf
discomfort and there is no reason for not operating
12 ANIMAL CASTRATION

at a very early age, it is best to select the earliest
convenient time. Swine also are most successfully al-
tered when very young. Sheep and goats are not
capable of withstanding surgical interference to the
same extent as cattle, and are best castrated at or
about two months of age. Dogs and cats are castrated
merely as a matter of domestic convenience, and in the
majority of instances, since these animals are kept for
pets or companions, the operation is best and easiest
for the subject at or about the age of six months. Jn
the unsexing of females, reasons for operating deter-
mine in a measure, the age most suitable. Heifers are
spayed, if possible, before experiencing their first
estral period, and the same is true of female swine,
dogs and cats. Where the operation is done by the
method of Charlier, the animal needs to attain a suffi-
cient degree of development to enable the operator to
comfortably manipulate instruments within the vaginal
canal. Long deferment of this operation, however, is
not likely to bring at once the desired result of ab-
sence of the sexual instinct in the previously bred fe-
male of some species.

Season and Age for Castration

The season best suited for castrating depends some-
what upon climatic conditions, existent vulnerable
agencies, and customs fixed because of the element of
convenience necessary in proper handling of the sub-
jects. In those latitudes where insect life or other
vulnerable agencies frequently cause an unfavorable
outcome, castration should be done in the spring of
the year. Where animals are sent to pasture for the
spring or swnmer months, the operation is more con-
veniently done before they are turned out. In other
INTRODUCTION 13

instances, where screw worms do not abound, or where
the subjects are somewhat unthrifty, it is best to
castrate them during the early summer months. It
seems hardly necessary to say that animals should not
be exposed to adverse elements immediately after this
operation, as exposure to long-continued cold rains
tends to lower the vitality, decrease the powers of
resistance and enhances the possibility of sequele.
However, the fallacious theory cherished by some,
that colts should not be exposed to rain directly
after castration, should be emphatically discouraged.
Inevitably more harm is done by the well-meaning
client who shelters his recently castrated colt in an
unsanitary and even filthy stall than can possibly be
occasioned by the heaviest downpour of rain, provided
the weather is not cold. It has been found impos-
sible for a newly castrated colt to assume the normal
recumbent position when it is kept in a stable or lit-
tered barnyard without causing contamination of the
surgical wounds of the scrotum. Postoperative infec-
tions have been so caused in many instances, at the
expense of the reputation of the acting veterinarian,
and it therefore behooves the castrator to insist posi-
tively upon having his patient kept away from all
barnyard filth until the scrotal wounds have healed
completely.

In eastrating normal young animals that are kept
under average conditions, no preoperative preparation
is urgent. Where general anesthesia is employed in
the handling of mature animals, or in the case of
nervous stallions, food should be withheld for a suffi-
cient length of time to minimize the danger of fer-
mentation of ingesta which might be brought on by
the attendant excitement. In certain pathological con-
ditions where the operation is likely to consume con-
14 ANIMAL CASTRATION

siderable time, as in some eryptorchids, and in cases
where general anesthesia is to be employed, animals
should always be dieted before operating. Preopera-
tive preparation of the surgieal field varies with the
case and the manner in which the technique is exe-
euted. Where a normal animal is castrated under aver-
age conditions, local preparation consists in washing
with suitable solutions and rendering the field clean.
Tn other cases, such as ecryptorchid castration, a thor-
ough cleansing of the surgical area with soap and
water, drying the parts, and finally painting the skin
with tincture of iodin, is a necessary precautionary
measure. In the castration of swine and ealves, if
the parts are not soiled, no preoperative local cleansing
is imperative.
PART ONE
SECTION I

CASTRATION OF MALES
PRELIMINARY MEASURES

Selection of Instruments

In the performance of any surgical operation, every
reputable surgeon has his decided preference with re-
gard to the instruments and appliances to be used,
and while it is not our purpose to recommend any
particular make of instruments, we do deem it wise
to call attention to the fact that there are a discov-

 

Fig. 1—A CASTRATING KNIFE OF A GOOD PATTERN, HAVING
A SHORT BLADE WITH CONVEX CUTTING EDGE

ered few on the market the faulty construction of
which makes them very undesirable for the purpose
of castration.

Especially must the instrument used for this pur-
pose be a properly designed one and of a convenient
size. Castrating knives are made of the hoe blade or
hooked pattern, or equipped with a rather short blade
having a very convex cutting edge, and are preferably
devoid of a sharp point.

For the ablation of the testicle, the emasculator
is the more widely used instrument by scientific vet-
erinarians, and so long as it is constructed in such
manner that division of the cord may be effected

15
16 ANIMAL CASTRATION

without subsequent hemorrhage, the essentials exist,
and it remains a matter of choice with the operator
as to which particular style of this instrument he

 

Fig. 2—A SUITABLE CASTRATING KNIFE HAVING A
HOOKED BLADE

may prefer to use. The same statement is true of
the eecraseur, and as these two instruments are the
principal ones employed in the ecastrating operation,
none others will be mentioned here.

As in the ease of all surgical instruments, it is most
important that they be properly cared for—kept clean
and dry when not in use. It is quite impossible to
keep an instrument clean alter the plating has be-
come damaged. Every veterinarian should have suffi-
cient pride in the appearance of his equipment to keep

 

Fig. 3—A VERY GOOD STYLE OF EMASCULATOR WITH EXTRA
ATTACHMENT TO INSURE HEMOSTASIS

it in good condition, even though it were not urgent
to do so in the case of castrating instruments, to pre-
vent possible infeetion, and only the practitioners who
have this innate pride will tend to raise the standard
of their profession. Castrating instruments should be
PRELIMINARY MEASURES 17

boiled daily when regularly used and should be kept
wrapped in a clean, sterile towel, and not loosely
thrown in the soiled and more or less contaminated
emergency bag. In field work the average client will
inwardly, if not outwardly, appreciate the pains taken
by the serupulously exacting operator, even though he
is put to some effort to procure a clean pail or basin and
sterile towels for the convenience of the veterinarian,

 

Fig. 4—A SUBSTANTIAL sue tees OF THE “QUICK-CHAIN”
TYPE

when the client understands that such precautions are
taken for the sole purpose of lessening the danger of
infection to his animals.

The veterinary student who is unfamihar with the
appearance and quality of castrating and other special
instruments should refer to any complete veterinary
instrument catalogue, which ean he readily secured
from any reputable dealer.

Restraint

A. thorough knowledge of practical methods of re-
straint of animals is very necessary in order to become
skilled as a castrator. It could not be the intention of
any right thinking veterinarian to employ restraint to
the exclusion of anesthesia; however, oftentimes a cas-
tration operation, skillfully performed on a conscious
animal, may inflict less real shock and distress to the
subject than complete anesthesia used under average
18 ANIMAL CASTRATION

conditions. Proper restraint constitutes a very essen-
tial part of the operation sor successful castration, and
this means applies not only to the preparation of large
animals but to the smaller ones as well.

Veterinary surgeons are not agreed as to the best
method of procedure in the handling of larger animals
in many instances, but while their opinions may differ
in this, the result sought is the same, so that while
one man may confine an animal in some specific way
that departs radically from the manner ordinarily
employed, he may, nevertheless, be a very practical
and successful operator. In the handling of horse and
mule colts for castration there are probably many
more practitioners who cast the animals in some se-
cure manner than there are who perform the opera-
tion with the subject in standing position. Each of
the two methods has its advantages and its disadvan-
tages, which may be summarized as follows:

The standing operation is practicable in colts that
have attained sufficient size to allow for the work
with a certain degree of convenience to the operator,
hut it is not practical and is difficult to perform in
undersized subjects—particularly so in mules, where
the testicle is not well developed and the cremaster
muscle active in contraction. The standing operation
requires less time and exertion for one skilled in its
performance, but it is sometimes prolonged because of
the inability of the operator and his assistant to prop-
erly control the animal, and it occasionally becomes
impossible to cope successfully with certain abnormal
ecnditions encountered, thereby necessitating interrup-
tion of the work for the purpose of casting and tying
the subject so that the task may be completed. For-
tunately for both operators and animals, such condi-
tions are rarely encountered.
PRELIMINARY MEASURES 19

It is quite impossible to operate upon the standing
animal and execute as nearly perfect a technie with
respect to cleanliness as may he done upon the reeum-
bent animal. The average operator would probably
not meet with success in the handling of other animals
than colts that are sufficiently tractable to be readily
haltered.

All conditions and emergencies taken into considera-

 

 

Fig. 5—CASTRATION OF THE COLT IN A STANDING POSITION
The cperator is clcse to the subject yet not contacting the animal

tion, it is evident that the performance of castration
upon the standing subject would be only suecessfully
executed by those already skilled as eastrators, apt and
adaptable as horsemen, and sufficiently agile to pro-
tect themselves when necessary. The operation is ad-
vised only in animals that are normal with respect to
the position and development of the testicles; where
20 ANIMAL CASTRATION

there exists no hernia or other abnormal conditions
which might seriously interfere with the work, and in
colts having developed sufficiently to enable the oper-
ator to thoroughly execute the technie.

The matter and manner of restraint of his subjects
is of great importance to the veterinarian, and he
should not be wanting in proper judgment and skill
to employ the most practical, the safest, and most hu-

 

 

Fig. 6—-A PRACTICAL METHOD OF RESTRAINT FOR
CASTRATING COLTS

mane means in every instance. Experienced castrators
have demonstrated that the wild, untamed colt is han-
dled with the minimum degree of resistance when
quickly and securely confined in reewnbency, and also
that the large, lethargic draft colt is more easily han-
dled in a gentle, leisurely, yet skillful, manner. In the
first instance there may be need of a lariat rope and
the employment of the old simple method of ‘‘hog
PRELIMINARY MEASURES 21

tying,’’ whereas in the second case the subject may be
castrated while in the standing position, or he may be
gently and quietly cast and confined with some prac-
tical harness. In short, it is necessary to use different
methods to suit the number of varying cases.

The veterinarian should never disregard the fact
that a certain amount of responsibility rests upon him
in regard to the employment of untrained assistants,
and their likelihood of meeting with accidents in the
handling of animals. In the absence of precautionary
advice, the volunteer or untrained helper may suffer
painful injury, and it therefore behooves the practi-
tioner to warn and so place his clients when they are
lending assistance that he—the practitioner—may not
be charged with wilful neglect in this matter. It is
likewise most important that the animals placed under
restraint be handled in an extremely careful manner,
to prevent their becoming injured. Such forethought-
ful measures will discourage attempts on the part of
the client to colleet indemnity in case of accidental
injury or loss of the patient.
SECTION II

ANATOMY OF THE STRUCTURES
DIRECTLY INVOLVED

The testicle is a structure that is composed of gland-
ular, vascular, nervous, and fibrous tissues, and its lo-
cation in the different animals varies somewhat. It is
supported more or less closely to the body by means
of the cremaster muscle, fibrous integuments of the
cord, and by the scrotum. The cremaster muscle has
its origin at the posterior portion of the inner abdom-
inal ring, and, according to Sisson, originating from
the iliac fascia near the origin of the sartorious. The
distal attachment is by means of the tunica vaginalis
communis.

The spermatic cord consists of fibro-areolar struc-
ture loosely enveloping arteries, veins, nerves, and the
vas deferens. The spermatic artery is given off from
the aorta, and the spermatic vein furnishes a means
of return for the blood. Lymph vessels accompany
the vein and empty into the lumbar lymph glands.

The vas deferens, which is also contained within
the spermatic cord, is a continuation of the epididymis,
separating itself from the vessels located in the anterior
portion of the cord, as it enters the urogenital fold.
The nerve supply is derived from the renal and pos-
terior mesenteric plexuses.

The scrotum or pouch containing the testicles is
composed of layers derived from the skin and other
integument forming the abdominal wall, and from
without inward are the skin, dartos, scrotal fascia,

23
24 ANIMAL CASTRATION

tunica vaginalis communis, and tunica vaginalis
propria. The dartos is derived from the abdominal
tunic; the scrotal fascia is contributed by the oblique
abdominal muscles; the tunica vaginalis communis is
a continuation of the parietal peritoneum; and the
tunica vaginalis propria is the mesorchium of the
fetus. These coverings are not proper to the testicle,
but, strictly speaking, are coverings usually considered
as forming the serotum.

The proper covering of the testicle is the fibrous,
inelastic, closely-investine tunica albuginea, which is
not directly attached even to the tunica vaginalis
propria. In the immediate region of the scrotum there
is to be found in some eases in colts an abnormal de-
velopment of branches of the external pudie veins
forming plexuses. This is common in eryptorchids.

There is much difference in the comparative size of
the testicles in the various domestic animals. Bulls,
sheep and goats have comparatively large testicles,
which are supported in the sub-pubie region in a pen-
dent manner, exposing these glands to injury from
ballotment between the thighs or from actual vio-
lenee in many other ways. The testicles of the boar
are comparatively large but closely invested by the
scrotum, and situated in the external perineal region
in such manner that they are well protected. Jn the
horse the testicles are comparatively smaller than are
those of the animals aforementioned, supported rather
more closely to the body in the sub-pubie region and
ordinarily not subject to injury exeept from chafing,
this occurring more often in light harness horses put
at. fast work.
SECTION III

METHCDS OF CASTRATION

In the castration of animals the practicability of
any given modus operandi ean only be judged accord-
ing to the convenience of the veterinarian and the
possible difficulties to be encountered in varying cases.
Ablation of the testicle being the essential object of
the operation, assuredly, then, it behooves the sur-
geon to accomplish this result in the most practical
manner possible, with the least discomfort and danger
to his subject and to himself.

A consideration in the performance of this opera-
tion is the danger of hemorrhage, and because of this
possibility being greater in certain animals, the instru-
ment to be used should be selected accordingly. Tn
subjects prone to suffer hemorrhage, the employment
of the ecraseur, the emasculator, ligatures, or even the
wood clamp, is indicated; but for all practical pur-
poses where hemorrhage is improbable, removal of the
testicles may be safely and immediately accomplished
by the use of the knife. The use of the ecraseur or
emasculator in the castration of a weanling pig, for
instance, is impractical, and is not a favorable choice
for the operator. In animals where there exists some
possibility of hemorrhage, the knife may be employed
in such a manner that the tissues severed are scraped
and not keenly divided, and a moderate degree of
‘unlimited’? torsion of the spermatie cord—twisting
it round and round—and then dividing the tissues by
scraping, lessens the danger of hemorrhage.

25
26 ANIMAL CASTRATION

Histologically considered, the tunica intima of ar-
teries is the most delicate layer of the three, and where
any sort of manipulation of an artery results in injury
to this innermost layer, retraction of the tissue fol-
lows. With such retraction and contusion, the lumen
of the vessel is materially lessened, and coagulation
of blood is hastened. This inner tissue of the arterial
wall is the least resistant and will be divided before
the outer struetures are erushed; therefore any in-
strument that will effect the division of the tissue
surely, and cause sufficient contusion to insure coagu-
lation of arterial blood, will serve for the safe removal
of the testicle.

While the term castration only refers to the abla-
tion of the testicle, other means of rendering animals
sterile are sometimes resorted to. The secreting power
of the testicles may be destroyed and still leave them
in situ. These painful methods are employed in coun-
tries where the production of castration wounds are
inadvisable because of the possibilitics of infection
resulting in tetanus or other dangerous maladies. The
destruction of the seereting power of the organs may
be brought about by a subcutaneous torsion of the tes-
ticles by digital manipulation—the testicles being
placed in a position that causes complete obstruction
of the circulation and resulting in aseptic inflammation
and eventual atrophy of the glands.

Tn animals having a pendent serotuin, the spermatic
cord may he crushed subcutaneously between the
edges of pieces of wood or other blunt objects, which
will ultimately cause atrophy of the testicles and
sterility; or a ligature applied above the constricted
portion of the scrotum, situated above the testicles, will
in about two weeks cause sloughing of the scrotum.
But such barbarous methods inflict much suffering on
METHODS OF CASTRATION 27

the subject, and while they have been neeessary in
some sections for local reasons, to the scientific and
humane mind they should be termed obsolete and un-
worthy of consideration.

Castration operations may be regarded under two
general headings with certain modifications, and are

 

Fig. 7—THE “COVERED OPERATION,” SHOWING EMASCULA-
TION OF THE TESTICLE AND ITS INTACT VAGINAL
COVERINGS

to be classed as the wneovercd operation and the covered
operation.

The uncovered operation is the one usually em-
ployed and is the more practical in the various animals
when the subjects are in a normal condition. This
operation consists in the exposure of the testicle proper
by means of an incision through the scrotum, such
28 ANIMAL CASTRATION

incision penetrating the skin, dartos, scrotal fascia,
and both layers of the vaginal tunic, thereby exposing
the testicle within its own adherent covering and sub-
sequent ablation of the gland.

The covered! operation is indicated in cases of serotal
or inguinal hernia and is exceuted by incising the skin
and dartos and by breaking down the serotal fascia,
thus exposing the tunica vaginalis communis, but not
perforating it. By careful blunt dissection in the proe-
ess of severing the attachments of the scrotal fascia,
the operator is enabled to cause protrusion of the
testicle confined in its own proper covering plus both
layers of the vaginal tunic, providing for the appli-
cation of a clamp, or ligature, cn masse, before the actual
ablation of the testicle is effected.
SECTION IV

CASTRATION OF THE HORSE

Normal Colt

Since there are more colts castrated and restrained
in recumbeney by means of some sort of harness, this
shall he deseribed as the principal method of restraint.
After having cast and seeurely tied the colt on its
left side (for the right-handed operator), an assistant
is stationed at its head to prevent the animal doing
itself injury. The tail is then cither held under the
foot of the operator or secured in some practical man-
ner to preclude its being thrown over the surgical
area.

Preparation of Subject

The surgical field should first be cleansed of any
dry dust or particles of filth which may have been
thrown there during the resisting struggles of the
animal. Having at hand, in a clean vessel, about a
gallon of suitable antiseptic solution (a one per cent
lysol solution, or formalin one-fifth of one per cent),
the scrotum is then rinsed off thoroughly.

Operative Procedure

The castrating knife and emasculator should be in
readiness. The lowermost testicle is seized between the
thumb and finger of the left hand of the operator, and
a bold incision made parallel with the median raphe
for a distance sufficient to insure the free drainage of
the wound after the operation has been completed.

29
30 ANIMAL CASTRATION

This ineision, skillfully made, reaches through all of
the scrotal wall down to the testicle, yet should not
penetrate the testicle proper nor injure the gland.
Care in this particular not only minimizes the pain
of the subject but in the mature animal obviates the
otherwise inevitable result of hemorrhage. If done
with care, a moderate degree of traction may be ex-
erted upon the testicle to cause relaxation of the ere-
master muscle, but undue force used in such cases may
result in rupture not only to the attachments of the
eremaster muscle, but to the spermatic vessels as well,
and this occurring within the abdominal cavity causes
hemorrhage into the peritoneal cavity, with fatal re-
sults. In some cases the power of contraction of the
cremaster muscle is so well developed that it resists
the efforts of the operator to draw out the cord, and
in such cases it is wise to work slowly, holding the
cord for a sufficient length of time until muscular re-
laxation occurs. The use of quick force is to be
avoided, as said before. »;The emasculator is then ap-
plied as close to the scrotum as possible, and the cord
and the lower part of the vaginal tunic is severed
there. Hemostasis is not aided by the slow closing of
the emaseulator, and because this deliberation only
adds to the pain of the operation, it should also be
avoided.

Subsequent to emasculation, the scrotal wound may
be enlarged to prevent the retention of any wound
secretion or infeetive disturbances. Another method
of providing for the free escape of wound seeretion
consists in the making of an incision through the
scrotal wall beginning at the median portion of the
margin, carrying the incision away at a right angle
from the median raphe for a distance of about an
inch or an inch and a half.
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE ol

In castrating the normal equine subject, both the
scrotal incisions are made before emasculation is be-
gun. Because of the fact that the hemorrhage from
the uppermost incision is likely to obscure the sur-
gical field, in lateral recumbeney, it is preferable to
remove the lowermost testicle first.

To obviate danger of hydrocele, in the castration of
mules, there should be removed with the division of
the cord as much of the vaginal tunics as can con-

 

 

Fig. €@—A MODIFICATION OF THE “COVERED OPERATION”

The position of the operator’s left hand is such that the testicle is grasped
between thumb and index finger, and the vaginal coverings are held in
a state of tension, enabling their being grasped within the jaws of the
emasculator. This operation is particularly indicated in mules. It prac-
tically precludes the occurrence of hydrocele or ‘‘water seed.’

veniently be included within the grasp of the emascu-
lator. In this way all of the lower portion of the
02 ANIMAL CASTRATION

tunica vaginalis is removed, practically precluding the
oceurrence of the undesirable condition known as
hydrocele or ‘‘ water seed.’’

After-Care

Where the operation is executed with due regard
to cleanliness with sterile instruments and the hands
of the operator uncontaminated, local application of
any medicament is unnecessary. It is, however, best
to squeeze out any blood that is retained about the
emasculated stumps of the spermatic cord. The ani-
mal should be provided with clean quarters, allowing
freedom to exercise—preferably turned out to pasture
and kept away from stables and all barnyard soil.
Under average conditions no local attention is neces-
sary and the operation produces but little inconveni-
ence to the subject.

Castration of the Normal Mature Stallion

For various reasons, occasionally it becomes neces-
sary to castrate the horse after he has fully matured,
and in some instances the operation is done in the
aged subject. The factors met with in handling such
cases that merit special consideration are, the problem
of practical restraint, the control of hemorrhage and
after-care.

Season.—One should, if possible, avoid castrating
the mature stallion during fly-time and in very hot
weather. Jixtremes of temperature have no direct
effect upon the outcome of the operation, hut these
elements in themselves make for discomfort. An un-
necessary combination of factors which tend to lower
vitality should be avoided if possible.
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 30

Preparation of the Subject.—-Food should be with-
held for 12 hours before operating, and if the subject
can be given suitable exercise (walking or trotting for
a lew miles) belore being castrated, it will stimulate
bowel evacuation and render the subject more tract;
able. Sufficient time should be allowed for the sub-
ject to cool off if the exertion has caused him to become
heated.

Restraint and Anesthesia.— When it is possible, these
subjects should be restrained in the standing position
since it eliminates the Hability to injury from casting.
Some young stallions of saddle or light harmess breeds
are very nervous, and while manageable as they are
ordinarily used, are difficult to restrain for standing
castration, and the manner in which the subject is to
be handled is a problem that the veterinarian needs to
decide for himself. In restraining aged animals be-
eause of the danger of fractures of bones resulting, it
is best to operate with the animal in the standing posi-
tion.

The rectal administration of from one to two and a
half ounces of chloral hydrate dissolved in two or
three quarts of tepid water a half hour before operat-
ing, will serve to produce sufficient stupefaction to
materially benumb sensation and prevent the animal
from resisting restraint. One-half grain of atropin
combined with two grains of morphin and given sub-
cutaneously about 20 minutes before the rectal admin-
istration of an ounce of chloral hydrate, constitutes
a synergistic combination that will positively produce
a degree of stupefaction which will make possible the
safe handling of the most nervous animal. The rectal
contents should be manually removed before introdue-
ing the solution of choral hydrate.
34 , ANIMAL CASTRATION

Preparation of the Field of Operation.—The scrotum
and surrounding parts should be washed with soap
and water and finally with a two per cent solution of
Liquor Cresolis Compositus.

Technic.—The manner in which the operation is
performed does not differ in any way from that done
in the colt. The wrcorered operation is done and great
eare should be exercised in making incisions through
the testicular covering that are amply large to favor
perfect drainage. The scrotal incisions need to be not
only long, but situated in the most pendent part of
the scrotum to avoid retention of wound secretions
after operation.

In ‘‘standing castration’? most operators prefer to
use a knife having a hooked blade, and the incisions
into the testicular covering are made parallel with the
median raphe, from before backward, and through all
covering from the scrotum inward, at one stroke of the
knife. With a good sharp knife, an experienced oper-
ator can in this manner complete the incision almost
painlessly and at the same time make it in a way that
perfect drainage of wound secretions will follow.

Any good emasculator will serve to effect sufficient
hemostasis for a safe operation, but the animal should
be tied up and observed for a few hours after ecastra-
tion. Enforced inactivity for 12 hours after castra-
tion, if possible, is desirable. Secondary hemorrhage
in the adult is no more likely to occur than in the
young colt.

After-Care.—The recently castrated stallion should
be kept on pillar reins when not being exercised, and
much less infection and swelling will result. He should
be given suitable exercise daily and exertion should be
active enough to stimulate complete evacuation of all
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 30

seeretions that are retained in the serotwn, In the
average Case, exercise is sufficient to prevent extensive
edematous swelling.

Beeause of the fact that more hemorrhage follows
castration of the mature stallion there is retained con-
siderable coagulated blood within the scrotum. This
should be removed 24 hours after castration by gently
irrigating with a one per cent solution of Liquor
Cresolis Compositus if the animal is sufficiently tract-
able to admit of such handling without restraint other
than the twitch and the holding up of a front foot.
If the subject is difficult to manage, one may ordinarily
trust to evacuation of the contents attending exercise.

Other complications which may result in no wise
differ from those met with in colts and are considered
fully in the section on Castration Sequelae.

Castration of Cryptorchid Horses

Etymologically, eryptorchid means ‘‘hidden  tes-
ticle,’? and is applicable to any animal in which one
or both testicles are located elsewhere than within
the serotum. Therefore it is applicable to cases in
which one or both testicles are located within the ab-
dominal cavity or, not having completed their nature
descent through the inguinal canal. Usage, however,
has restricted the term to animals wherein one or both
testicles are contained within the abdominal cavity, not
having passed through the inner abdominal ring and

entered the inguinal canal. ; ;
The term monorchid is applied to animals having

but one testicle. In human anatomy and surgery this
term has been given a different significance, being
used to designate an individual having one testicle
in the scrotum and the other in the abdominal cavity.
36 ANIMAL CASTRATION

For convenience, eryptorchids may be classified as
ingiinal and abdominal, A varying eondition to which
attention should be called for surgical purposes is
found in those cases where the epididymis has de-
scended into the inguinal canal and the inner abdom-
inal ring has become constricted about its ligament,
confining the testicle proper within the abdominal
cavity. This type of cryptorchid or ridgeling is likely
to confuse the operator if he has not previously en-
countered such conditions.

Abdominal Cryptorchidy.—Cryptorchidy is more
prevalent in some localities than in others. In some
sections of the United States, about three or four per
cent of all horse colts are cryptorchids, and in other
localities a much larger percentage of animals are thus
affected. The large number of cases found in certain
localities may be ascribed to the fact that eryptorchid
stallions are used in the stud. So markedly hereditary
is this condition that in many cases 25 per cent or more
of the colts sired by such animals are similarly affected.

Most operators have found that where only one tes-
ticle is retained, it is usually the left. However, in the
experience of a few others in some localities the per-
centage of animals having the right testicle retained
in the abdominal cavity is the greater.

A eryptorchid horse is a very undesirable animal
from every standpoint; is usually vicious, unsatisfac-
tory and unsafe to handle in the presence of mares,
and in the majority of instances he cannot be turned
out with geldings, because of his vicious disposition.
The condition is diagnosed readily in most cases by
their abnormally increased sexual desire as compared
to the gelding or even the normal stallion, even though
no other manifestation of the condition be apparent.
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 37

The abnormally retained testicle is usually infertile,
degenerated, and may be very small and lack develop-
ment. In other cases the eland is cystic and rarely
there may be found a large dense teratomatous mass.
Where history is absent or unreliable, a careful exami-
nation of this subject is necessary in order to definitely
diagnose the case.

The conformation is characteristic because of the
lack of development of the hind quarters in the adult;
a full crest, strong masculine features of the head and
absence of serotum, are all indicative of eryptorchid-
ism, but it is necessary to examine further to deter-
mine the exact condition, whether one or both testicles
are retained and whether it is the right or left. One
cannot be guided in this solely by the presenee or ab-
sence of sears in the scrotal region; neither is the
absence of a palpable stump of the spermatic cord posi-
tive proof that the testicle has not been removed, for
in some cases, where animals are operated while very
young, there is so much atrophy of the stump of cord
that it is not discernible by digital manipulation. The
condition may be diagnosed by rectal palpation but this
method is not practical in field work.

Age at Which Operation May be Performed.—The
best age at which to castrate a cryptorchid 1s a subject
on which operators differ. It is certain that a two or
three-year-old colt is more easily castrated than is a
yearling. TlIowever, the yearling colt that shows no evi-
dence of testicle within the inguinal canal is not likely
to manifest any change in this part at a later age and
should be castrated if healthy, vigorous and not under-
sized.

Anatomy.—It is not our purpose in this brief work
to elaborate upon the regional anatomy of the strue-
38 ANIMAL CASTRATION

tures pertaining to the cryptorchid. However, some
consideration of the inguinal region is in order. In
the true abdominal cryptorchid there is necessarily a
complete absence of all evidence of scrotum. The
structures at this point assume the appearance of an
inverted funnel, and horses manifesting this condition
are known by castrators as ‘‘blanks.’’ Since no tes-
ticle has descended into the canal, the pudie vessels
and nerves are closely invested by areolar tissue, and
the entire inguinal region in front of the inguinal liga-
ment is closed. At the site of the inner abdominal
ring we should consider the anatomy of these animals
under two general classifications—the one wherein
there exists a definite area of delicate aponeurotie tis-
suc surrounded by a heavier muscular margin, this be-
ing a portion of the aponeurotie part of the inner
oblique abdominal muscle; the other class of subjects
ave those wherein at the site of the inner rine there
is to be found a broad expanse of very thin aponeu-
rotic tissue with no definite heavy surrounding margin.

In the abdominal eryptorchid, the testicle is floating
free in the abdominal cavity, contained within its
mesorchial covering anchored hy the mesorehium in
the sub-lumbar region and further attached by means
of the gubernaculum testes—a muscular structure at-
tached to the postero-external part of the upper por-
tion of the inguinal canal. Additional attachment is
supplied the floating testicle by means of the vas def-
erens, which is continued from the testicle within its
peritoneal coverings through the plica urogenitalis to
the region of the neck of the bladder. Consequently,
in seeking the floating testicle, if the free appendage
—the testicle or the epididymis—is not readily located,
cither the gubernaculum testes situated at the postero-
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 39

external part of the site of the inner abdominal ring or
the vas deferens located directly opposite may he
sought and the testicle and eord drawn into the in-
guinal canal.

Preparation of the Subject.—Unless the eryptorchid
horse is mature and the alimentary tract well filled,
no preoperative dieting is necessary. However, as in
all other major operations, it is best to withhold food
for twenty-four hours when circumstances permit.
The matter of gaunting an animal for this operation
is one which merits considerable attention in that sub-
jects that are ‘‘fwlly made’’ and well ‘‘ribbed up’’ or
short coupled and carrying considerable fat are not
likely to be rendered gaunt by even thirty-six hours’
fasting. Such subjects should be put on a light dict of
concentrates including a little bran, and in the course
of three or four days of such dietetic preparation, the
intestinal content will be materially lessened.

Restraint.—There is no operation done by the vet-
erinary surgeon where restraint is a more important
feature. The cryptorchid should be cast and very se-
curely tied in a position causing him to keep the hocks
well flexed and abducted. This is done with the ordi-
nary casting harness by having the back strap set well
back and by winding the side lines over the gastroc-
nemii and about the feet in the form of a figure eight.
Where the side lines are crossed over the back of the
subject completing the tie of the left leg with the
right side line and the right leg with the left side line,
perfect flexion and abduction may be brought about.
Tf the animal is not securely restrained with the hocks
well flexed and the thighs well abdueted—unless he is
under profound anesthesia, any considerable resistance
on his part will serve to cramp the hand of the oper-
40 ANIMAL CASTRATION

ator by compressing the inguinal region with the
thighs and abdominal muscles. There is nothing which
is likely to cause more difficulty during the process of
the operation than incomplete restraint.

 

 

Fig. 9—RESTRAINT FOR CRYPTORCHID CASTRATION
Attention is called to the manner in which the hind legs are flexed, be-
cause immobilization of the hind legs in the positicn as shown here is a
very important part of the procedure of cryptorchid castration. The
subject in this particular cut, however, has been restrained for removal
of a scirrhus cord.

Anesthesia.——Cryptorchid castration is a major sur-
gical operation, yel where it is skillfully performed
and where no unusual conditions are encountered ne-
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 41

cessitating delay in its execution, animals manifest
very little symptom of shock as a result, even where
no anesthesia is used. However, it is well to admin-
ister, per rectum, from 114 to 214 ounces of chloral
hydrate dissolved in about two quarts of water twenty
minutes before casting the animal. The contents of
the rectum should be removed manually by a trained
assistant before the solution is introduced in order to
get prompt absorption and a good effect.

Surgical Technic.—The field of operation is pre-
pared by first washing thoroughly with soap and
water, then drying and painting with tincture of iodin.
Care should be taken that loose hairs and particles of
dirt or filth are not dropped on the scrotal region.

The animal should be confined in lateral recumbency
with the uppermost hock well abducted by an assist-
ant. The skin incision should be made either parallel
with the median raphe o1 over the external inguinal
ving and should be of sufficient length to comfortably
allow for the introduction of the hand of the operator.
Care should be exercised in incising the skin singe the
external pudie veins if wounded will cause sufficient
hemorrhage to obscure the field and inconvenience the
operator.

After having incised the skin and dartos, the hand
with the fingers in the shape of a cone is inserted into
the inguinal canal beginning at the region of the ex-
ternal ring and pushing into the tissues in the direc-
tion of the external angle of the ilium, keeping well
back against the inguinal ligament, as there is no dan-
eer of making this opening too far posterior. This
opening of the canal is continued up to the region of
the inner ring. Different operators observe different
ouides in this part of the work. The throbbing of the
42 ANIMAL CASTRATION

femoral artery in the region of the inner ring is used
as a guide by some; others seek the ilio-pectineal emi-
nenece. During the process of opening the canal, one
should carefully palpate the structures to determine
whether or not the testicle or the epididymis has de-
scended into the canal and become lodged therein.
Dilatation of the margins of the wound will make pos-
sible a visual examination, and the depths of the strue-
tures may be further explored hy careful palpation.
Having made sure that the testicle has not begun its
descent, the region of the inner abdominal ring is eare-
fully explored, and here there is need for a modifica-
tion in the teehnie in different cases as heretofore
classified.

Tn the subjeet where the inner abdominal ring is
outlined by a muscular margin having for its central
portion the aponeurotice part of the inner oblique mus-
ele and where the surrounding area is firm, rather
heavy and unyielding—museular fibres of the trans-
versalis abdominalis and inner oblique muscles, it is
well to immediately perforate this thin area at the site
of the inner ring with the finger. After having per-
forated the peritoneum, the finger is immediately
turned so as to contact the parietal peritoneum, avoid-
ing the possibility of its becoming invested with float-
ing omentum. Tf the testicle, epididymis or any por-
tion of the cord is not soon contacted, the operator, by
wiping with the finger in the direction of the attach-
ment of the gubernaculum testes, seeks this fold and
begins to draw upon said structure, bringing the cord
within his grasp, whereupon it may be pulled into the
inguinal canal, bringing with it the testicle. Some
operators prefer to turn the finger toward the plica
uro-genitalis and in a similar manner bring the cord
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 43

within the grasp of the finger, effecting the same
result.

In the second class of cases there is found a broad
expanse of thin aponeurotic tissue in the region of the
inner ring. This expanse of tissue is as large as the
palm of the hand in most cases and in such subjects
it is well to seek some portion of the testicle,
epididymis or cord, recognizing the structures by the
sense of touch before perforating the peritoneum. This
is usually possible in this class of cases, and the oper-
atov by expanding the thumb, index and second finger
in the form of the base of a tripod, in this region can
make provision for the testicle or epididymis Deing
crowded against and within his erasp by intra-abdom-
inal pressure. Having secured in this manner the tes-
ticle or epididymis, the aponeurotie tissues are drawn
gently downward, and by eareful traction the peri-
toneum is drawn into the canal for a varying distance
in different subjects. In some cases it is possible to
draw down this artificially formed processus vaginalis
half the way to the external abdominal ring. This
having been done, the peritoneum is usually ruptured
with the finger and the testicle is readily drawn out
and the operation performed with a twninimum degree
of contamination of the peritoneal structures. Credit
is due Professor W. lL. Williams for a good deserip-
tion of this technic.

In the third class of eases, the operator finds in the
region of the abdominal ring that the epididymis has
deseended into the inguinal canal and that the testicle
is confined within the peritoneal cavity. Tn such cases
the tail of the epididymis forming an obtuse end is
readily recognized. In all cases there is sufficient con-
striction and organization of the inner abdominal ring
44 ANIMAL CASTRATION

to prevent the testicle being forcibly drawn down
through the ring with any degree of safety. This
condition necessitates perforation of the abdominal
wall at a point higher than the inner abdominal ring,
perforating the peritoneum, securing the testicle and
drawing it out of the artificial opening at a point situ-
ated supero-posterior to the inner ring. In this man-
ner the epididymis is drawn back into the peritoneal
cavity and is drawn out, following the testicle. After
having secured the testicle where the cord will per-
mit of its being brought to the surface, it is readily
amputated with the emasculator. In some cases the
spermatic cord is very short, necessitating the re-
moval of the testicle within the inguinal canal, and
this is best accomplished with an ecraseur.

Tn a class of cases wherein degenerated testicles,
cystic, hypertrophic or teratomatous are occasionally
encountered, there is need for a departure from the
technic usually employed in other cases. Cystic tes-
ticles, if large, may be secured by means of traction
on the spermatie cord and the fluid content aspirated
with trochar and cannula.

In cases where the retained testicle is hypertrophic,
dense and not too large, the operator can with lubri-
cated hand introduced per rectum, crowd the testicle
at the same time that traction is exerted on the cord
and in this manner effect its removal from the abdom-
inal cavity.

Where the abnormal testicle is of very large size,
making it unsafe to attempt removal by the inguinal
route, a laparotomy is necessary. This operation
should not be done, however, until the inguinal wound
has healed.

The technic is executed with the subject under com-
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 45

plete anesthesia. The region of the upper flank is
cleansed, shaved and painted with tincture of iodin.
An incision through the skin and fascia is made just
anterior to the external angle of the ilium, sufficiently
large to admit the hand. The muscular structures
and peritoneum are perforated by blunt dissection as
in cattle-spaying and the testicle likewise is similarly
sought. The testicle is brought to the surface of the
abdominal wound if possible or if this is not possible
ablation of the abnormal structure may be effected
within the cavity of the abdomen. The skin and fas-
cial incision is closed with a continuous suture of silk,
the wound sealed and no after-care is necessary ex-
cept to remove the sutures in about a week. Where
strict asepsis is observed there is little danger of had
result from this operation.

After ablation of the testicle has heen effected by
the inguinal route, the cavity may be packed with
sterile gauze which is left in position for twenty-four
hours and then removed. However, in the majority
of cases no packing of any sort is necessary, and ani-
mals are exercised regularly as though they had been
normal subjects castrated in the usual manner.

Where both testicles are retained within the abdom-
inal cavity, the animal is kept in recumbency, turned
over and the operation is repeated, both testicles being
removed before the animal is allowed to rise.

After-Care

After-care in delicate animals consists in keeping
them in clean quarters and giving them regular exer-
cise, thus favoring the escape of all wound secretions
and minimizing dangers of contamination by pent up
discharges with subsequent troublesome infections.
46 ANIMAL CASTRATION

Young colts that have been running on pasture are
best turned out immediately and given freedom to
exercise at will. If by accident a large rent is pro-
duced in the abdominal wall making protrusion of
portions of intestine possible, the inguinal canal should
be packed. For this purpose, a liberal packing of cot-
ton wrapped in sterile gauze or muslin should be
pushed into the canal as far as the inner ring and
confined by means of sutures which join the marginal
scrotal wounds. ‘To prevent possible eventration, ani-
mals so treated should be confined on pillar reins for
about thirty-six hours before the gauze is removed
and given exercise in the harness or at the lead and
not given liberty to le down for at least five or six
days.

Inguinal Cryptorchids (High Flankers)

Subjeets affected with inguinal eryptorehidy are not
as troublesome and undesirable as are abdominal eryptor-
chids, but they are more so than normal stallions.
Cryptorchids are undesirable for breeders even when
fertile, therefore castration is always in order.

Restraint.—Animals are cast and tied exactly as are
the abdominal eryptorchids; see deseription on pages
39 and 40.

Technic.—Because of the fact that in inguinal
eryptorehids the cremaster muscle has the power of re-
tracting the testicle and drawing it high up in the canal,
this type of eryptorchids is in some instances as diffieult
to castrate as the true abdominal ridgeling. The tech-
nie for handling these cases is executed in the same
manner as is done in the castration of the abdominal
eryptorchid up to the point of perforating the abdom-
inal wall. The testicle is readily located within its
vaginal covering in the canal, and the tunics are pref-
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 47

erably incised with the hooked blade castrating knife.
As soon as the small incision is made into and through
the vaginal tunics, some portion of the testicle may
be squeezed out through the opening, and amputation
of the gland is then readily accomplished. The small
opening thus made into the vaginal tunies is easily
enlarged after the testicle has been amputated, which
is necessary.

After-Care.—These cases require no more after-care
than is given to the ‘‘straight’’ colt at the time of
castration, and the type calls for no special consider-
ation except for the purpose of classifying them as a
distinet and separate class of eryptorchids. In these
cases the testicle has descended into the canal, the
processus vaginalis has been pushed downward and
the vaginal tunies formed in such manner as to make
them differ from the true abdominal ridgeling. Jn
such abnormal cases of course, no scrotal pouch has
formed, but in most instances the testicle is readily
felt by palpation of the inguinal region. There are
occasional cases, however, where it is impossible to
locate the testicle in this manner.

Hernize

To be considered under this heading are hernie, in-
guinal and scrotal, of foals—a condition due to a loose
and lax state of the inner abdominal ring permitting
the descent into the inguinal canal of a loop of intes-
tine, which may descend as far as the scrotum. In the
typical case of inguinal and scrotal hernie as seen in
foals the loop of intestine is confined within the tunica
vaginalis communis and on the outside of the tunica
vaginalis propria. Strictly speaking, it is a condition
wherein the loop of intestine has taken its way along-
4s ANIMAL CASTRATION

side the testicle and inner vaginal tunic, and the tes-
ticle only is contained within its mesorchial covering—
the tunica vaginalis propria. This is most common in
foals at or soon after birth, and in the majority of
cases causes no particular inconvenience; they are not
likely to become strangulated, and in most subjects,
spontaneous recovery is the result before the colt
reaches the age of six months. As a general rule,
operation for the relief of the condition in foals of a
few weeks of age is quite unnecessary, as complete re-
covery so generally follows in the course of sixty days.
It is well, however, to inform the client of the possi-
bility of hernia at the time of castration, even though
the colt is not altered until he is a year old and re-
covery has apparently existed for a few months.

Where it is thought necessary to operate to correct
the condition, the covered operation for castration is
indicated and should be performed as deseribed in the
technic of this operation on page 28.

Sequele

Accidents from Restraint.—In the handling of ani-
mals for castration, particularly where they are cast
and tied, even with the employment of great care and
skill, injuries such as serious fractures, contusions,
strains and bruises may sometimes oceur through the
resisting struggles of the subject. Fracture of some
part of the vertebral column is a fatal accident that
is especially liable to occur where aged animals are east,
or where the subject is over-rebellious against confine-
ment. Symptoms of this injury differ, depending upon
the site of the fracture. In the majority of instances,
such fractures occur in the dorsal region and a para-
plegia results. The animal remains prostrate, unable
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 49

to raise the hind parts or regain its feet. If a thorough
examination shows positively that such a break exists,
the case should be pronounced hopeless and the sub-
ject destroyed at once.

Fractures of tuberosities or of long bones may hap-
pen likewise, and are to be treated as fractures re-
sulting from other causes; that is, if it is the kind
likely to yield to treatment. The animal is properly
confined in slings and partial or complete immobiliza-
tion effected according to the best methods usually
employed.

Animals resisting confinement sometimes suffer from
strains, rope burns, or contusions. While such condi-
tions are not common, where subjects are carefully
handled, the client should be informed of the remote
possibility so that the veterinarian may not be held
responsible for the occurrence of such accidents.

Occasionally if an animal is kept confined for an
undue length of time in reeumbeney, atrophy of the
longissimus dorsi museles oceurs within ten days or two
weeks after the animal has been so confined. Such
casas are treated along the same general lines as atro-
phies resulting from other causes, and prompt and
complete recovery usually follows.

Hemorrhage.—lIlemorrhage following castration hap-
pens more frequently in some animals than in others,
but for this purpose they may be considered in two
classes,—primary hemorrhage and secondary hemor-
rhage. Primary hemorrhage is seldom of any serious
consequence except in cases where faulty instruments
are employed in foals, not effecting complete macera-
tion of the cord and causing spermatic hemorrhage.
These cases are readily recognized, as the blood from
the spermatie artery spurts with each pulsation and
50 ANIMAL CASTRATION

requires immediate treatment. Because of the fact that
retraction of the cord takes place to a marked degree
within the vaginal sheath containing it, it is not easy
to ligature the cord after it has been closely amputa-
ted. Having at hand two pairs of hemostatic forceps,
the operator may seize the end of the cord with one
forcep, drawing out the tissues as far as possible, and
then by seizing the cord again with the other foreep,
the bleeding stump is brought to view. After securely
clamping the forceps over this stump, a lhgature may
be applied; a good stout needle with silk thread is
passed through the cord above the foreep and the liga-
ture is fastened tightly after having been wrapped
around the stump. No further treatment is necessary
although it is best to remove the ligature in about ten
days.

Tn some eases, because of the eramped position of
the animal ecas‘rated while recumbent, there occurs
some little venous hemorrhage; this, as a rule, how-
ever, subsides as soon as the animal regains its feet.
Should this condition persist to a great degree, the
scrotum may be packed with sterile gauze or muslin
and the packing confined in situ by means of scrotal
sutures, to be removed in twenty-four hours. <As a
rule primary hemorrhage from castration properly
performed, is of no consequence, and spontaneous ces-
sation of the hemorrhage is the rule, within the course
of a few minutes, therefore these cases should not
alarm the operator.

Secondary hemorrhage from this operation is a con-
dition which is probably due to a state wherein the
blood does not normally coagulate,—a condition found.
perhaps more often in the spring of the year in ani-
mals that are not thrifty. Such hemorrhage is not
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 51

noticeable for several hours after the operation has
been performed, but if within twelve to twenty-four
hours after a colt has becn castrated, a steady loss of
blood from the spermatic vessel is evidenced, the ease
should receive prompt and drastic attention, as these
hemorrhages may continue for a few hours, yet they
have been known to persist for days, rendering the
animal anemic and weak, and causing death in some
instanees. If much blood has been lost, the animal
should be cast and the stump of the cord securely
heatured as deserihed for primary hemorrhage.

Shock.—In some cases the attendant fear and un-
natural interference of a surgical operation bring
about a distraught condition of the nervous system,
known as surgical shock, this state being characterized
by manifestations of pain, muscular tremors, labored
breathing, more or less sweating and acceleration of
the pulse, which in the later stage hecomes somewhat
feeble. Animals so affected exhibit these symptoms to
a greater or less degree, and the result may be either
a slight or serious disturbance of bodily functions
causing discomfort or it may result in death according
to the organism of the subject.

Colic.—This disturbance is sometimes manifested af-
tev the castration operation. It is more likely to affect
animals of a nervous temperament, and is the conse-
quence of the excitement and resistance incident to
being restrained. The symptoms and treatment of
such cases do not differ from those of colic produced
by other causes. It is well to take the anticipative
measure of withholding food for at least twelve hours
before operating on these highly strung, nervous ani-
mals, as colic may be attended by fermentation and
serious trouble follow.
52 ANIMAL CASTRATION

Hernia.—In some rare instances where animals re-
sist confinement very violently, and where there exists
a very loose and large inguinal ring, a loop of the
intestine may be pushed out through the inguinal
canal, and hernia or even eventration result. In these
cases, the condition demands prompt handling; the
protruding intestine should he supported by a sling
of canvas or other suitable fabric, the subject confined
in dorsal recumbency, and the hernia redueed. Re-
duction by taxis is possible with the subject under
complete anesthesia. The cavity should be carefully
packed with cotton wrapped in sterile gauze and this
packing confined by strong sutures which join the edges
of the serotal incision. If this can be accomplished
before damage is done the protruding viscera, there
is some hope of recovery, but the animal should he
kept quiet and in the standing position for several
days. The subject should he only moderately exercised
and not given freedom for two or three weeks.

Swelling of the Scrotal Region and Scrotal Ab-
scess.—Swelline of the scrotum and sheath followine
this operation is not uncommon and in many instances
is not to be ascribed to faulty technie nor lack of
proper after-care. When vitality is at low ebb in colts
that have been wintered badly and eastrated in the
early spring, the circulation is enfeebled and they are
quite prone to exhibit this condition after the opera-
tion. In some instances the retention of large quan-
tities of smegma within the sheath causes the external
prepuce to become greatly swollen, this swelling later
extending in all directions and a marked edematous
condition of the lower abdominal walls may continue
for a week or two. In other cases, because of slight
swelling which follows the operation, coaptation of
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 53

the marginal wounds of the scrotum takes place and
the retained coagulated blood subsequently becomes
infected and is naturally followed by considerable
swelling. Exercise tends in all cases to minimize post-
operative swelling. In the case of the enfeebled ani-
mal manifesting much swelling, it is advisable to ad-
minister stimulants and searification of the pendent
edematous swollen parts should be done, and where
the swelling involves the serotum proper, the wounds
should be reopened, this being readily done with the
thumb and index finger. A layman may be instructed
to do this with safety, if he is cautioned to introduce
the previously cleansed fingers into the wounds, and
by means of a bold thrust tear asunder the newly
formed adhesions, thus permitting the escape of the
pent-up seeretions and coagulated blood. Following
such manipulation, the subject should be exercised in
moderation even though force must be used to make
it do so. Nutritive and laxative diet and good hy-
vienie care are necessary. Subjects so affected are
best kept at pasture and away from lots and stables.

~Scrotal Fistulan—Where the draining of a scrotal
abscess is neglected, the condition results in invasion
ol the tissue juxtaposed. Fistulous tracts are usually
found coursing along the sides of the sheath parallel
with the median raphe. Where these conditions are
neglected, chronic inflammation results with hypertro-
phy and the formation of considerable cicatricial tis-
sue and permanent enlargement of the sheath,, Such
eases should he treated surgically by making suitable
drainages and removing with the curette or other
appropriate instrument, all detritus, and injecting the
parts with tincture of iodin. After-care consists im
54 ANIMAL CASTRATION

allowing the animal sufficient exercise to prevent too
early closure of drainage openings.

Post-Operative Peritonitis——This condition is a se-
guel of the generalization of local infection and is
wore likely to occur in depleted animals that have
been improperly castrated or in animals that have been
infected at the time of castration through the use of
septic instruments or careless manipulations. Like-
wise the transmission of streptococcic organisms and
their introduction while castrating, are very likely to
result in fatal peritonitis; however, peritonitis thus
developed is not always fatal. It is manifested hy
symptoms of lethargy, inappetenee, stiffness, rise in
temperature of from two to five degrees above nor-
mal, acceleration of the circulation and a tueked up
appearance at the flank. The subjeets are not inelined
to move about much, but remain standing generally,
hecoming restless in the later stages, and lying down,
rolling about and getting up again by turns. Loeally
there is found issuing from the inguinal region, a sero-
sanious fluid, and animals exhibiting this affection
should be given prompt local treatment to establish
drainage. Laxatives, together with stimulants, should
be administered, and the appetite tempted with any
good, wholesome food.

Scirrhus Cord.—This enlargement is developed by
infection involving the spermatic cord either because
of its hecoming impinged between the serotal wound
margins and remaining thus exposed for a sufficient
length of time to allow contamination, ov it may be
a sequel of serotal abscess. In some vases it is said
to be caused by botrymyeotie invasion. The condition
is essentially chronie and is characterized by an indu-
rated necrotic enlargement of the spermatie cord in-
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 59

volving the tissues adjacent. Animals so afflicted may
manifest little uneasiness or discomfort except at cer-
tain periods when the affected parts become greatly
swollen, causing local soreness, pain, and some lame-
ness. The necrotie process results in the formation
of more or less pus which eventually makes its own
outlet. The secretions are discharged and in the course
of a few weeks the wound closes and the process recurs
again in the same course of time. This slowly de-
structive affection may cause the tissues involved to
assume proportions quite large, and is painful and in-
convenient for the animal. The condition is distin-
guished from hydroeele and hernia by its dense and
hypertrophic character which involves the surround-
ing tissue as well.

Treatment.—The subject is cast and confined as for
ee castration, and a rectal administration of
Jt. ov 2 ounces of chioral hydrate dissolved in a quart
of tepid water twenty minutes before operating, is
suggested. The surgical field is cleansed as for castra-
tion; the cicatricial pendent portion of the scroiumn
is secured with vulsellum forceps and an elliptical in-
cision is then made ineluding the tissues thus grasped.
By dissecting around the pear-shaped mass, the ne-
erotic structures are separated from the tissues ad-
herent, taking care not to include too much healthy
tissue. Thus the mass is carefully separated up to a
point where the cord is in a healthy state, and ampn-
tation of the mass with the ecraseur is effected. Tn
the average case, it is found that the cord is diseased
within the inguinal canal only and it is exceedingly
rare that the involvement extends as high as the inner
abdominal ring. llowever, there are recorded cases
where the cord has heen affected into the abdominal
56 ANIMAL CASTRATION

cavity and such cases are, of course, inoperable, since
it is not ordinarily reasonable to attempt to amputate
the cord at a point higher than the inner abdomina?
ring.

Hemorrhage is controlled during the operation by
means of forceps if any very large vessels are encoun-
tered. In this operation, however, there is generally
much oozing of blood and the dissection is usually done
rapidly, consuming as little time as possible. The cav-
ity is snugly packed with sterile gauze to be held in
position by suturing, and this will control the possi-
bility of hemorrhage during the twenty-four hours it
is to be left in the cavity.

After-Care.— After attention consists in allowing
moderate exercise and applying locally if conditions
require, a dry dressing powder by means of an insuf-
flator. In hotryomyeotie infections, potassium iodid
is of value,

Hydrocele.—Hydrocele, commonly known as ‘‘ water
seed,’’ is an affection frequently found in males where
1 portion of the tunica vaginalis becomes involved in
such a manner that a ecyst-like enlargement results.
It is more often seen in mules. The operator should
remember that this condition is eenerally the sequel
of an imperfectly performed castration where the tu-
nica vaginalis has not been freely opened, or where
the lowermost portion of the tunic was not amputated
at the same time the cord was divided.

Symptoms.—Symptoms of hydrocele are the exist-
ence of a fluctuating enlargement occupying the posi-
tion of the testicle,—this to be distinguished from her-
nia in that iis irreducible and somewhat more dense,

 

—and also there is a marked constriction and presenev
of dense tissues at the point of attachment at the
CASTRATION OF THE HORSE 57

stump of the cord which is detected by palpation and
which is not found in hernia.
Treatment.—Subjects so affected should he cast and
tied and the area of operation prepared as for castra-
tion. An elliptical incision is then made in the sero-
tum, to include the castration sear. By careful dissee-
tion the eyst-like enlargement is separated from the
tissues without cutting through its wall, up to a point
where it is attached to the cord, and ablation is then
effected by means of the emasculator or ecraseur. This
operation is a very simple oue if the wall of the cyst
is not perforated, and when this enlargement has been
removed completely, with the amputation of the cord
at or above the site of adhesion of the vaginal tunics,
recurrence ol this affection is not possible.
ee

beret
SECTION V

CASTRATION OF THE BOS

The scrotum of the bull is located more anteriorly
than is that of the horse, and is more pendent, having
the long axis of the testicles vertically situated. The
cremaster muscle is large and well developed. The
spermatic cord is very long, and after the attachment
of the cremastvr mucle has been severed, the cord will
allow of the testicle being drawn well out from the
scrotum. In no other consequential way does the anat-
omy of the structures diveetly concerned in castration
of the bull differ from that of the horse.

Males of the bovine species should be castrated at
a very early age to obtain the best results, but since
this is not always convenient, castration is often de-
ferred until the animals reach the age of six or eight
months. Therefore, subjects under this heading shall
be considered with respect to their varying ages. Ani-
mals four months of age or older are preferably han-
dled in the standing pesition as it requires less time
in that manner and is more convenient and practical
than when the subject is confined in recumbency.

Castration of Young Calves.—When possible, the
male calves should be castrated while very young,—
as they are easily handled even when only two or
three days old, are but slightly inconvenienced and
apparently suffer no shock from the operation. These
subjects should be restrained in recumbency, for, as
a rule, they are not particularly resistive and may he
easily held by an assistant. In most young subjects
the scrotum is covered with hair and the testicles are

59
ANIMAL CASTRATION

60

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sYDUNUAS DINIISA
CASTRATION OF THE BOS 61

so very small and undeveloped that it is somewhat
difficult to secure the testicle for the purpose of incis-
ing the scrotum. To follow a very practical and con-
venient method of castration, have in readiness an
operating knife with a pointed blade, then by seizing
the fundus of the serotum with the thumb and finger,
the instrument may be thrust through the serotum at

 

Fig. 11—CASTRATING THE YOUNG CALF
Showing manner in which the scrotal incision is made; also a practical
method of restraint.

right angles with the median raphe. The location of
this puncture is sufficiently remote from the bottom
of the scrotum to insure an amply large and free open-
ing of both sides of the pouch by carrying the incision
through the tissues and simultaneously opening both
halves of the scrotum. An incision is then made in
the vaginal tunics, this being done by seizing the tes-
ticles which remain encapsulated within their serous
62 ANIMAL CASTRATION

coverings, and the operation is completed by exerting
a moderate deeree of traction on the exposed testicle,
and dividing the cord by seraping with the knife.
With the employment of this technie the operation
is quickly and almost painlessly accomplished, hemor-
rhage is avoided, perfect drainage is provided for and

 

 

 

 

Fig. 12—RESTRAINT OF CALF IN STANDING POSITION FOR
CASTRATION

The subject is securely tied by means of a lariat or halter, and an assist-

ant further restrains it by holding the tail. The operator is shown in

the act of removing the end of the scrotum by means of a transverse

incision.

the scrotal pouch is left nearly intact. <All details
being carefully observed, the subject requires no after-
care.

Castration of Calves.—Under this heading, animals
of two months of age or older shall be taken into con-
CASTRATION OF THE BOS 63

sideration, Such subjects when healthy and vigorous
are more easily castrated in the standing position, be-
ing confined in a stanchion and held against the side
of the partition by an assistant, or, after catching the
animal by the head with a lariat rope, snubbing it to
a post, and having the assistant grasp the subject by
the tail, holding the hind parts firmly against a fence
or partition.

 

Fig. 13—SHOWING POSITION OF OPERATOR, ALSO LINES OF
INCISION PARALLEL TO THE MEDIAN RAPHE OF THE
SCROTUM INDICATING LOCATION OF INCISIONS

Unless the serotal region is badly soiled, no partic-
ular cleansing of the parts is necessary. The operator
takes his position behind the animal, seizing the sero-
tum in such manner that a vertical incision may be
made on the lateral sides of the scrotum, exposing the
testicles with one stroke of the knife. All tissues
should be divided from without, within,—that is, from
64 ANIMAL CASTRATION

the outside inwardly,—ineluding the vaginal tunics
as indieated in the wrcovered operation. The attach-
ment of the cremaster muscle is then severed, and with
moderate traction upon the cord, the testicle is drawn
downward as much as the structures will permit with-
out danger of fibrillary laceration. The cord may read-
ily be amputated by means of an emasculator.

Some operators prefer to remove the fundus of the
scrotum and in this manner expose both halves of the
pouch; this procedure is followed by grasping the fore-
most portion of the skin and dartos whereupon the
subject, by means of contraction of the cremaster mus-
cle, usually elevates the testicle to such a degree that
as much as one-third of the scrotal pouch may be
divided by one bold incision directed at right angles
with the median raphe. This method provides for clear
drainage, but because of the incidental sacrifice of a
large porcion of the scrotal pouch, steers are deprived
of what is termed the ‘‘purse’’ or ‘‘eod,’’—an unde-
sirable condition in the fatted animal, according to
many fanciers. For the completion of this method of
castration, the operator follows the procedure that has
just been outlined in the preceding paragraphs under
this same heading.

After-Care.—The only after-attention to be econsid-
ered is the provision of clean quarters for the subject,
unless the operation is performed at a time when flies
are prevalent, when trouble is likely to arise from that
source. The animals are hest turned out to pasture if
the weather is not cold.

Castration of Mature Bulls——Mature subjects of this
species are prone to suffer considerable hemorrhage
following any ordinary operation for castration unless
ligatures are employed. These animals are handled
CASTRATION OF THE BOS 65

best in the standing position, confined in a stanchion
or simply tied with a halter, and as a rule, no special
precaution is taken for the safety of the operator. It
is possible to employ a rope which is passed around
the body of the animal in the region of the flanks, and
drawn quite snugly for the purpose of subduing the
patient to some extent should it be necessary; in that
it prevents the animal from kicking, it is a wise pre-

 

 

Fig. 14—RUEFF’S METHOD OF CASTING
This mode of casting is very practicable with most subjects that are not
too large and strong.

cautionary measure. In the case of vicious subjects,
they may be cast with English hopples to enable the
operator to do his work conveniently and without dan-
ger.

When bulls are confined in the standing position,
the surgeon takes his place behind the animal, and
scrotal incisions are made as described in the opera-
tive technic for younger animals. Likewise the
66 ANIMAL CASTRATION

lower attachment of the cremaster muscle is severed
and the testicle drawn downward by means of mod-
erate traction. The exercising of ‘‘unlimited”’ torsion
by rotating the testicle on its long axis fifteen or
twenty revolutions before applying the emasculator,
will serve to further prevent the possibility of serious
hemorrhage. Some operators prefer severing the cord
by employing traction and ‘‘unlimited’’ torsion until
the structures are almost completely divided, cutting
only the more dense remaining structures, and in this
manner preventing severe hemorrhage. It is also pos-
sible to divide the cord hy exercising ‘“‘limited’’ tor-
sion, employing for the purpose a heavy compression
foreep which is clamped upon the spermatic cord as
close to the inguinal canal as it can be placed. By
means of this forcep, torsion is restricted to such point
on the cord as is confined within the grasp of the for-
cep, and by twisting the testicle and rotating the cord
on its long axis, the structures are simply ruptured by
twisting,—the forcep serving as a restricting agent,
thereby limiting the extent of torsion.

After-Care.—Immediately after being castrated, the
subject should be kept in elean quarters and allowed
room for sufficient exercise to insure the escape of
wound secretions and to minimize post-operative swell-
ing. In fly-time it becomes necessary to apply certain
repellent agents such as carbolized oleum picis. To
promote the welfare of the subject it should be given
a laxative diet.

Cryptorchid Bulls

Cryptorchid bulls are either inferstiteal or abdem-
inal—the latter being those cases in which the testicle
may be found floating within the abdominal cavity.
CASTRATION OF THE BOS 67

Interstitial eryptorchids are those where the testicle
is concealed in the subeuticular abdominal structures
lateral to the external prepuce. To establish classifi-
cation wherever possible, it is well in all cases of erypt-
orchidy to carefully examine the region of the animal’s
flank for the likely location of the testicle in this
vicinity.

Preoperative Preparation of the Subject—Food
should be withheld for a period of twenty-four hours,
and administration of a pound of magnesium sulphate
twenty-four hours before operating, is in order.

Restraint.—For this operation animals are prefer-
ably confined in the standing position, being restrained
in a suitable stanchion or crowded alongside a wall or
partition, by means of a stout pole. Thirty minutes
before operating, the subject should be given a drench
of from one to two ounces of chloral hydrate dissolved
in one or two quarts of tepid water.

Technic.—The flank region anterior to the exter-
nal iliac spine should be freed of all hair by clipping,
and the field properly cleansed with a mild antiseptic
solution. An incision is then made as for spaying,
between the anterior angle of the ilium and the last
rib,—this incision being directed downward through
the skin and fascia,—and by blunt dissection the ab-
dominal muscles may be separated, the operator forcing
his hand through the abdominal wall into the perito-
neal cavity. Exploration is then made of the pelvic
portion of the cavity, as in spaying, and as a conven-
ient guide, it is well to note the shaft of the ilium.
The operator then seizes the urogenital fold, and the
cord is readily and quickly traced from this point, the
testicle is brought to the surface and removed with the
emasculator or spaying scissors. The skin and fascia
68 ANIMAL CASTRATION

wound is closed by means of a continuous suture and
the wound margins smeared with pine tar. No after-
care is necessary but if convenient, it is well to re-
move the sutures in about a week.

Interstitial Cryptorchidy.—In cases of this type the
testicle is often found concealed in the lower abdom-
inal wall, usually covered by the skin and fascia, and
located in the region of the flank or alongside the
sheath. The testicle may readily be recognized by its
firm contour, and is secured by incising the skin and
fascia directly overlying it, and thus exposed, the tes-
ticle is removed with the emasculator. The skin in-
cision is not necessarily sutured as the usual location
ol the testicle in these cases is such that a very small
opening will enable the operator to secure and re-
move it, and the position of the wound provides for
vood drainage. No alter-care is customary.

Sequelz

In the castration of adult or aged bulls, resultant
post-operative hemorrhage is a condition frequently
encountered, and because of the sometimes serious con-
sequences, it becomes urgent that the veterinarian ob-
serve well and follow the preventive measures pro-
vided for in the suecessful performance of this opera-
tion on mature animals. Where the operator employs
a good emasculator or eeraseur and takes reasonable
precaution against hemorrhage, fatality is not likely
to result from the operation. Where hemorrhage ex-
ists in a degree not evidently death-producing, the
internal administration of atropin in a full physiolog-
ical dose will prove very beneficial. The confinement
of the subject in inactivity in a tie stall for from 24
to 48 hours will also favor spontaneous hemostasis, and
CASTRATION OF THE BOS 69

the additional use of hemostatic agents such as exsic-
cated alum, iron subsulphate, or air slaked lime, ap-
plied locally by means of an insufflator, is of great aid.
In cases of profuse hemorrhage and where the life of
the subject is endangered, he should be cast, “hog
tied,’’? and the serotum packed with gauze held in
position by means of scrotal sutures,—this packing to
be carefully removed in 24 hours. It is most impor-
tant that animals so affected be kept in clean quarters
and without privilege of exertion for at least 24 hours,
and in the days immediately following this treatment
they should be allowed only a limited amount of ex-
ercise.

In these cases, the scrotal wounds must be given
careful attention, subsequently, to observe and pre-
vent the closing of the drainage opening, which might
result in serious infection. In about 48 hours, if the
coagulation of blood has rendered the continuance of
hemorrhage improbable, an irrigation of the wound
with a one per cent solution of Liquor Cresolis Com-
positus will be beneficial.

Following castration of calves, venous hemorrhage
is of frequent occurrence, but in these cases the loss
of blood is not of sufficient amount to cause serious
disturbanee, and no attention is necessary other than
to restrict exercise and keep the subject under obser-
vation lest the hemorrhage continue to a degree de-
manding treatment. Remedial efforts should be fol-
lowed in these subjects the same as described for the
bull.

Internal Hemorrhage.—Internal hemorrhage may
result where undue traction has been exerted upon
the cord, causing rupture of the spermatic vessels at
a point within the abdominal cavity, either with or
70 ANIMAL CASTRATION

without obstruction of the inferior inguinal region.
This accident is characterized by the symptoms which
attend all cases of internal hemorrhage, such as an
acceleration of the heart, weak pulse, unsteady gait,
paleness of visible mucosx, muscular tremors, and
finally labored breathing, collapse and death of the
subject. Treatment generally proves futile in cases
where profuse hemorrhage exists, but in some in-
stances, such agents as atropin, which decrease vaseu-
lar constriction, may be of service; the intravenous
injection of normal saline solution in moderate quan-
tities, is also beneficial in some cases. Animals so af-
fected should be kept quiet and unnecessary disturb-
ance avoided.

Infection of the Wound—wWhile bovine subjects
seemingly are very resistant to ordinary infection, yet
post-operative infections do occasionally oceur, due in
part to the inertia following the shock of the opera-
tion of castration. This inactivity enhances post-oper-
ative swelling and edema, which make for the retention
of wound secretions and coagulated blood. In the
course of two or three days under these adverse condi-
tions, infection takes place and the subject manifests
evidence of intoxication from the absorption of prod-
ucts of bacterial activity thus incited.

Where bulls are castrated in cold weather under
unfavorable conditions, and not provided with proper
shelter, this element of cold combined with the ani-
mal’s marked disinclination to exercise after the oper-
ation, does not conduee to increase the powers of resist-
ance, but favors serious infectious disturbances, and
losses on this account occur.

Symptoms.—Symptoms of post-operative infection
consist in the general inclination of the animal to seek
CASTRATION OF THE BOS 71

quiet and isolation,—the refusal to eat only certain
things, if any,—a painful local swelling and a notice-
able tendency on the part of the subject not to move
about. Where the infection is serious or becoming
generalized, there is fever, constipation, disturbed eir-
culation, increased thirst, the frequent changing of
position from that of standing to recumbency, and
death may follow within the course of three or four
days.

Treatment.—If taken carly before any material gen-
eralization of the infection has taken place, the con-
fining of the subject in recumbency and the free open-
ing of the serotal wounds and irrigation of them with
a one per cent solution of Liquor Cresolis Compositus,
is helpful. A purgative dose of magnesium sulphate
will aid in correcting the condition and the daily irri-
gation of the scrotum with the solution just mentioned
is generally all the local treatment that is necessary
for recovery. The treatment is to be continued for
several days until the animal has improved and the
wound assumes a more nearly healthy condition.

Where the subject has been neglected until there
is evidence of considerable generalization of the infec-
tion attended by fever, inappetence and soreness, with
disinclination to move, the prognosis is not, as a rule,
favorable. Such cases should promptly be purged, and
if possible, supported with stimulants such as strych-
nin, alcohol or echinacea-angustifolia. The scrotal
wounds should be freely opened and curetted, and
this should be followed by frequent irrigation of the
wounds with suitable antiseptics. The subject should
receive the hest care and made as nearly comfortable

as possible.
Contamination by Flies—The larve of Lucilia ma-
~]
ID

ANIMAL CASTRATION

cellaria may do considerable damage by way of
contamination of the castration wounds. When this
condition prevails, the animals should be confined suit-
ably, the wounds curetted, and immediately irrigated
with chloroform or aqua ammonia. This procedure
includes the regular irrigation with a suitable antisep-
tie solution, following, and further prophylactic treat-
ment consists in the local application in proper sus-
pension, of agents that are repellent to the fly, most
of these mixtures containing tar or napthalene, and
being suitable for this purpose.
SECTION VI

CASTRATION OF SHEEP

Lambs are generally castrated at about two months
of age, and while these animals are not as hardy nor
as resistant to surgical interference, as are some ani-
mal subjects, under the proper conditions mortality
from castration is usually very low. Since the anat-
omy directly concerned in the castration of sheep is
similar to that of the bull, no description of these
structures need be given here.

Restraint.—Subjects should ecither be confined in
lateral recumbency and held by an assistant as though
hog tied, or they may be seated in an upright position
and thus supported between the knees of an assistant
who may secure within his grasp a front and hind leg
on each side of the animal. In this attitude, the dor-
sum of the subject is held against the body of the aid,
and the scrotal region is thus placed in an accessible
position for the operator.

Technic.Where the element of time is not to
hinder, preoperative clipping of the hair or wool over
the scrotum should be done. This is followed by serub-
bing the parts with a one per cent solution of lysol
or Liquor Cresolis Compositus, and the operation is
completed exactly as indicated in the section on cas-
tration of the bull.

After-Care.—Postoperative attention consists in the
provision of sanitary and comfortable quarters, and
since this operation should not be performed during
fly-time, no especial after-vare is ordinarily needed.

73
74 ANIMAL CASTRATION

Sequelz

Owing to the difficulty of securing the testicle in
lambs, there is considerably more manipulation of the
parts generally necessary at castration, than there is
for the same operation in calves and pigs, and this,
of course, offers greater possibility of infection. Fur-
thermore, the wool about the scrotum being longer,
that, also, is a more frequent source of contamination
in lambs.

However, fatalities from infection are relatively low
in sheep except in the event of tetanus. Some corrals
wherein sheep are kept seem to become seeded with
an unusual amount of tetanus infection, and the re-
sult is that about 25 per cent of the lambs castrated
in herds having acvess to such corrals, die of tetanus.
Even the utmost surgical precaution or purchasable
preventives that the average owner will countenance,
will not serve to curb this virulent germ once it gains
headway in a herd. The recurrent loss, year after
year, from this disease, can only be prevented by
changing the location of the corral or by using an-
other method of castration.

Where tetanus is prevalent in a herd and they ean-
not be moved to sanitary quarters, perhaps the best
means of castration is the use of rubber bands placed
tightly about the serotum. Tf the bands are dipped
in tincture of iodin before heing applied they occasion
no raw surfaces and tetanus does not follow castration
by this method, even in the worst infected localities.
However, this method of castration by lgating the
whole scrotum is inevitably painful and should not be
resorted to in any case except where the danger from
tetanus makes it imperative.
SECTION Vil

CASTRATION OF SWINE

Restraint.—With the exception of very large old
boars, swine are generally confined in lateral reeum-
beney for the castrating operation, and unless the ani-
mal weighs in excess of 200 pounds it may be held by
an assistant without the aid of ropes or cords. The
subject should be placed on the left side for the right-
handed operator, the assistant holding the pig’s right
fore leg and hind leg together within the grasp of
the hand as indicated in the cut. The assistant’s knee
rests upon the neck of the subject and with the left
hand he holds the lowermost hind leg. If the animal
is particularly vigorous and resistive, the operator may
help to secure him by resting his left knee upon the
uppermost ham of the subject.

Some old boars attain the weight of 700 pounds and
more and when these large animals are castrated, the
operation is performed while they are in a standing
position, confined by means of a rope, the noose of
which may be applied about the upper jaw; the other
end of the rope being tied to a post. In most instances
the animal resists confinement by pulling backward
upon the rope sufficiently to keep it taut, and he is
usually so occupied in this manner that the operation
can be done without the use of additional means of re-
straint. Because of the fact that they sometimes try to
squat and seat themselves upon the buttocks in such a

manner as to render the operation impossible, it be-
v

75
76 ANIMAL CASTRATION

comes necessary in these cases to resort to the use of a
pole, which should be pushed under the flanks and
serves as a lever ot the second class, preventing the ani-
mal from assuming the sitting posture.

Technic. — The scrotum should be thoroughly
scrubbed with a 2 per cent solution of Liquor Cresolis
Compositus before being incised, although in the major-
ity of eases for ordinary practical work, this precau-
tionary measure is not taken. Because of the manner
in which swine are usually kept, it is doubtful if this
semblance of preoperative cleansing is of any benefit
when castrated animals are returned to their unsanitary
and filthy pens as soon as the operation is completed.

A good, free incision is made through the skin and
dartos parallel to the median raphe, taking care to
open the scrotum sufficiently low to insure perfect
drainage of the wound. This clear drainage is most
important for the prevention of post-operative disturb-
ances such as infection resulting in scirrhus cord, of
which we shall make mention later.

The uncovered operation is employed in the normal
animal and the testicle exposed by means of one bold
incision. The attachment of the cremaster muscle is
severed, allowing the ready withdrawal of the sper-
matic cord, and in very voung animals the operation
is completed by exerting forcible traction on the cord,
causing its division by a sudden jerk which at the
same time produces hemostasis. In old boars ablation
of the testicle is done by means of the emasculator, or
unlimited torsion may he employed and the cord
divided by seraping with the knife.

After-Care.—No especial after-care is required cx-
cept that the castrated animals should be placed in
clean quarters, or preferably kept at grass. Access
CASTRATION OF SWINE 77

to dust wallows and old straw stacks should be pre-
vented, as this is a source of much serious infection.

Sequele

Castration operations in swine are seldom attended
hy severe hemorrhage, as spontaneous hemostasis usu-
ally takes place before an alarming loss of blood has
occurred. In the case of old boars there is evidenced
some manifestation of shock following the operation,
which is characterized by more or less restlessness
and symptoms of colic. Such patients should be
allowed abselute quiet and no other treatment will
ordinarily be found necessary.

Scirrhus Cord.—This affection is relatively com-
mon and develops where animals so affected are not
given proper attention early. A general unthrifty con-
dition of the animal follows which sometimes results
fatally. It is well, then, for the operator to note the
sources of this ailment.

Causes.—Perhaps the most frequent contributing
factor to the etiology of this condition is the making
of a scrotal incision that is not sufficiently large, or is
located at a point that is decidedly too high to permit
the cscape of wound secretion. Also, if the spermatic
cord is divided too near the testicle, allowing the
amputated end of the cord to become adherent to the
scrotal wound margins and thus exposed, infection of
this structure ensues with the formation of a scirrhus
involvement which attains bulky proportions resulting
in rapid depletion and emaciation of the subject.

Treatment.— When handled early before much hy-
pertrophy of the cord and attendant necrotic involve-
ment of adjacent tissues has taken place, prompt re-
78 ANIMAL CASTRATION

covery is stimulated by the making of a ree incision
into the tissues, exposing the affected cord, and the
removal with a curette of the necrotic tissue followed
by the injection of tincture of iodin. Where a large
encapsulated mass exists indicative of much tissue pro-
liferation, there is need for either complete removal
of the degenerated structures or their destruction by
means of chemicals. In eases where the diseased cord
and surrounding hypertrophic mass attain very large
proportions, the complete surgical amputation of such
structures is accompanied by fatal shock in many in-
stances. Experience has taught that in cases where
the secirrhus cord constitutes as much as eight or ten
per cent of the body weight of the subject, its com-
plete removal by surgical means is likely to result
fatally. These cases are therefore best treated by mak-
ing a free opening into the encapsulated mass which
is adherent to the end of the cord, and allowing escape
of the usually ichorous contents. This having been
done, the cavity may be packed with three or four
divams of powdered coppcr sulphate, which is held in
place by means of absorbent cotton. Injection of tine-
ture of iodin following this first treatment in about
two weeks is sufficient to bring about complete recov-
ery in most cases.

Where the diseased cord with proliferation of tissue
has assumed the form of an eneapsulated mass that
is not too large, the surgical removal by dissection
and amputation of the diseased stump of the cord with
the emasculator is indicated. The cavity should be
packed with sterile gauze which is retained in posi-
tion by means of scrotal sutures, the gauze to be
removed in 24 hours. No further after-care is ordi-
narily necessary.
CASTRATION OF SWINE 79

Scrotal Hernia

Occurrence.—This condition is of frequent oecur-
rence in swine and is noticed at or soon after birth,
probably 90 per cent of all cases being congenital. A
small percentage of cases manifest the condition a few
weeks after birth, and sometimes this state may not be
noticeable until the animal is about two months old,
such eases being undoubtedly the result of injury, with
a hereditary predisposition probably as a contributing
factor.

Classification For convenience, herniw of swine
shall be regarded in two classes: intra-vaginal, which
comprises the major portion of all eases, and ertra-
vaginal, or interstitial, the more uncommon. The infia-
vaginal hernia is a condition where the protruc-
ing portion of intestine is lodged alongside the cord
between the tunica vaginalis intima and tunica vagi-
nalis reflexa. In such eases the tunica vaginalis re-
flexa is intact, and the bulk of intestine extending as
far as the scrotum may be quite considerable, or, as is
often the case, the herniaed mass may be very small.

In ertra-vaginal or interstitial hernia there exists a
rent in the tunica vaginalis reflexa permitting the pro-
tusion of the ectopic intestinal structure in the inter-
stice outside of the tunica vaginalis reflexa. Depending
upon the exact location of the rent in the tunica vagi-
nalis reflexa, it becomes necessary to modify the tech-
nique for the correction of the ailment. If the rent
happens to be situated near the inner abdominal ring,
the covered operation for castration usually done will
not serve to reduce the condition. In such cases the
ligation of the cord ineluding the vaginal sheath will
not close the rent, it being situated anterior to the
80 ANIMAL CASTRATION

point usually chosen for the application of the liga-
ture.

Treatment.—The method of correcting this eondi-
tion is essentially surgical, and affected subjects
should be cared for when about a month old. It is
possible to defer the handling of such cases until the
animals weigh from 60 to 75 pounds, but it is more
desirable in every way to operate on suckling pigs
while they are very young.

Preoperative preparation consists of withholding all
diet from 12 to 24 hours. They should be kept in
clean quarters to render more nearly possible a thor-
ough cleansing of the surgical field.

Anesthesia.—No anesthesia is ordinarily employed
in the performance of this operation, although the
administration per rectum of a solution of fifteen
vrains of chloral hydrate dissolved in an ounce of
water, twenty minutes before operating, is advisable.
This will produce sufficient depression to minimize
pain and greatly lessen struggling and resistance.

Restraint.— When subjects weigh 25 pounds or less,
they may be confined by hanging them over a parti-
tion or board fence by means of cords or straps at-
tached to the hind legs, with the animal’s belly pre-
sented toward the operator. Larger animals may be
restrained upon an improvised table or door, tilted
at an angle of about 45 degrees, allowing the head to
hang lowermost, thus favoring gravitation of the vis-
cera toward the diaphragm. This position is more
comfortable for the heavier animals and also adds to
the convenience for the execution of the technic.

Technic.—In cases of intra-vayinul hernia where
the amount of intestine protruding is not great, and
CASTRATION OF SWINE 81

the subjects are treated while young, the ordinary
covered operation for castration is indicated.

The scrotal region is thoroughly scrubbed with soap
and water if much soiled. If the animals have been
kept in clean quarters, it is only necessary to scrub off
the parts with a little gasoline or aleohol and then
paint with tincture of iodin. An incision parallel with
the median raphe is made through the skin and dartos,
and earried very low to favor drainage and also to
permit the application of a ligature closer to the
inner abdominal ring than would be possible were
the incision made at the usual site.

After having exposed the vaginal tunic by a careful
dissection, the areolar tissue 1s broken down, severing
the attachment between the tunica vaginalis reflexa and
adjacent structure. This dissection must be carefully
done to avoid injuring the vaginal tunic, which is
eenerally very delicate. It is not desirable to rupture
this structure until it has been severed free from ad-
joining tissues to a point along the inguinal canal
under the pubis. Dissection having been completed,
the testicle is seized while confined within the vaginal
tunic, and a heavy pair of compression forceps are
clamped over the cord and its enveloping tissue, as
high up as possible, taking care that no portion of
intestine is confined within the grasp of the forcep.
This having been done, a needle armed with a stout
piece of sterile silk is passed through the cord and ecar-
vied entirely around the cord and its coverings, and
securely tied. Amputation of the cord at a point
about an inch from the ligature is then effected and
the scrotal wound is closed with a continuous suture of
heavy silk, leaving a small opening at the lowermost
82 ANIMAL CASTRATION

point for drainage. No especial atter-care is necessary
in these cases,

Technic for the Correction of Extra-Vaginal
Hernia.—In cases of exrtra-vaginal hernia, or in any
case where the amount of intestine protruding into
the vaginal tunic adjacent to the testicle is consider-
able, it becomes necessary to execute a different opera-
tion than the one heretofore described.

The animal should be restrained upon an inclined
improvised table with the head lowermost, and given
complete anesthesia of ether or A. C. E. The sur-
gical area—region of the groin—should be cleansed
with gasoline and painted with tincture of iodin.
Serving as a guide, the inner abdominal ring may
first be located by palpation, and an incision about
four inches long is then made over this site and paral-
lel with the course of the vaginal tunic. The tissues
are divided by careful dissection and the upper in-
guinal region thus exposed makes possible the incising
of the vaginal sheath, bringing to view the cord and
intestine, provided the intestine has not returned into
the peritoneal cavity by gravitation. The margins of
the wound made in the vaginal sheath are then seized
with forceps and the hernia is reduced. The cord is
secured and the testicle drawn outward and ampu-
tated with an emasculator or ligatured with gut and
severed with scissors. Alter amputating the cord and
trimming away any exeess portions of the vaginal
tunic, the cord is then pushed into the peritoneal eav-
ity and the inner abdominal ring is closed by a four
or five-point purse-string suture of sterile chromic gut.
The skin wound is closed by means of silk sutures and
no further attention need be given the subject except
to provide clean, sanitary quarters, where they will
be unmolested by other animals.
SECTION VIII

CASTRATION OF DOGS AND CATS

Restraint and Anesthesia or this operation dogs
are restrained preferably on some sort of operating
table where they may be muzzled and unless they are
very large or vicious they may be held by one assistant.
Anesthesia is not employed unless there exists some
pathological condition which renders the operation
painful and tedious. Sporting dogs sometimes receive
Injuries involving the serotum and doing some damage
to the testicles, necessitating the removal of one or
both glands, and if attention has not been given to
them until the struetures have become greatly inflamed,
the operation may be considered too painful to per-
form without anesthesia. In anesthetizing dogs,
morphin, atropin, or H. M.C. may be given about an
hour before administering chloroform or dilutions of
chloroform, such as A. C. E.

In the handling of cats, the operator should ever re-
member that these subjects are nervous, highly sensi-
tized creatures and require considerate, gentle care.
For the purpose of castration, they should be confined
by rolling them up in a blanket or heavy rubber sheet,
and this must be done quickly to avoid an encounter
which might result in injury to the operator. No anes-
thesia is necessary in the castration of the cat under
normal conditions. If the operation for any reason,
seems likely to be a difficult or severe process, the ani-
mal may be anesthetized with A. C. E.

83
s+ ANIMAL CASTRATION

Technic.—In dogs as well as in cats, the hair
should be carefully clipped away from the scrotum be-
fore operating. In the long-haired cats, this is quite
essential, and the surgical field should be cleansed with
a mild antiseptic solution. The scrotal incisions are
made parallel with the median raphe, exposing both
testicles, as indicated in the uncovered operation, and
this may be done before amputation of either of the
glands is attempted. The distal attachment of the

 

 

 

Fig. 15—SHOWING MANNER OF RESTRAINT OF MALE CAT
FOR CASTRATION

cremaster muscle is severed which allows protrusion of
the cord without resistance. Particularly is this essen-
tial in cats as it is then possible to obviate any danger
of the amputated end of the cord becoming adherent to
the scrotal wound margins and causing local irritation
or subsequent infection of the cord.

The cord is preferably severed with an emasculator,
or in eats, serrated scissors may be used. In the castra-
CASTRATION OF DOGS AND CATS 85

tion of puppies there is no danger of serious hemor-
rhage, but in the adult operation where the emascu-
lator is not employed, it is urgent to exercise care in
the manner of division of the cord, to prevent hemor-
rhage.

Cats are preferably castrated when they are about
six months of age, if in good health, and if the
operation is done at this period, there is no attendant
danger. In the adult or aged cat, hemorrhage is more
likely to oceur, although not to the extent that it is in
the castration of dogs. Older cats sometimes suffer
considerable shock and should be given 1-500 grains
atropin sulphate twenty minutes before operating.

After-Care.—For healthy, normal dogs, castrated in
the proper manner, no after-attention is necessary, as
the wound inflicted does not seem to occasion serious
inconvenience and infection of any seriousness seldom
ensues.

When possible, cats should be given the freedom of
their accustomed haunts and left unmolested, for when
confined in strange quarters they often become con-
stipated. Local infection resulting in intoxication is
likely to result fatally, if the subjects are not given
careful post-operative attention. Sometimes because
of local swelling, it is necessary to enlarge the scrotal
incisions two or three days after the operation has
been performed. Treatment in these cases consists in
the removal of necrotic tissue with a curette, or simple
irrigation with a mild antiseptic solution. To avoid
complications a laxative diet should be given.

Cryptorchid Dogs and Cats

Cryptorchidy is occasionally found in these subjects
and while the veterinarian is seldom called upon to
86 ANIMAL CASTRATION

operate, it is sometimes necessary to perform this
operation even in localities where small animal sur-
gery is infrequently done. The condition in these sub-
jects is closely analogous to that encountered in larger
animals. Ectopic testicles are sometimes found in dogs,
and in one case handled by the writer, the testicle in
a cat was so firmly adhered inside the inguinal canal
that only with great difficulty was it removed.

Technic.—Preoperative preparation consists in the
administration of a laxative, and if the rectum is filled
with dry fecal matter, an enema is given. The animal
is put under a general anesthetic and confined upon
the operating table in position for laparotomy. A lib-
eral area is shaved in the pre-pubie region of dogs and
in the Hank of eats, and an incision made of sufficient
length to permit of visual examination of the peri-
toneal cavity. The hidden testicle is sought by trac-
ing its course from the uro-genital fold and when
located is removed by limited torsion of the cord, or
with an emasculator.

The abdominal wound is then closed by means of a
continuous suture of No. 0 chromic gut, including the
peritoneum and abdominal muscles. The skin and
fascia are united by means of another continuous suture
of silk, leaving a small opening at one end for drain-
age. With the exception of the drainage opening, the
wound is sealed with flexible collodion, and the surgi-
cal field is covered with absorbent cotton held in posi-
tion by means of a bandage.

No after-care is necessary other than to administer
a suitable regimen and to take every precaution to pre-
vent constipation. The skin sutures should be removed
in five or six days and complete recovery generally en-
sues within ten days or two weeks.
SECTION IX

CASTRATION OF BIRDS
(CAPONIZING)

The castration of the male fowl gives it a good mar-
ket demand as a table delicacy, and when this opera-
tion is properly done at an early age, the capon attains
abnormal development and the fiber and flavor of the
flesh are greatly improved thereby.

Age.—The best results are obtainable by operating
just before the combs are formed, or as early as it is
possible to distinguish between the sexes.

Preparation of the Subject.—Withhold all food for
36 hours and water for 12 hours.

Restraint.— Arrange for the work a suitable table.
One may be improvised by using the head of a barrel,
covering it with a clean piece of oil cloth or rubber
shect. Confine the fowl by means of cords and suit-
able weights, grasping and holding the two wings
within a noose with a weight attached to hang on one
side of the table, and attaching a similar expedient to
the feet, suspending this weight directly opposite the
one which confines the wings.

Technic.—Prepare the fowl by plucking a few
feathers from the surgical area which includes the
vicinity of the last intercostal space. In this manner
enough skin is bared to allow of its being displaced
sufficiently to make an incision in the skin, which, when
the structures are released will not match or coincide
with the next incision to be made between the last two

87
88 ANIMAL CASTRATION

ribs. After making this intercostal incision, a speculum
is introduced gently for the purpose of separating the
ribs, and with a good overhead light, the peritoneal
cavity is sufficiently illuminated to permit a good view
of the region of the testicles, which are light in color
and just anterior to the kidneys and very close to the
aorta.

Removal of the testicles is effected by means of
adaptable snares or forceps, taking extreme care to in-
elude all testicular tissue within grasp of the instru-
ment, so that not even a microscopic portion of the
eland mav be left attached. Sufficient secretion will
persist if any testicular tissue is left in the situ, that
the result is what is known as a ‘‘slip,’’ or an imper-
fectly castrated bird. The operator should also be
very careful to avoid injuring the aorta as fatal hemor-
rhage invariably results.

Some castrators remove both testicles from the same
side, removing the one lowermost, first. However, the
average operator finds it more satisfactory to make an
incision on each side, removing one testicle at a time.
Suturing of the wound is unnecessary, as the skin which
has been displaced, when released, will cover the wound
between the ribs.

After-Care.—No especial after-care is urgent other
than that comfortable quarters with low roosts be pro-
vided, and the birds should be observed from 24 to 48
hours afterward as their movements may result in the
entrance of air into the incision in some cases, and
bloating occurs; the removal of air in these instances
necessitates the puncturing of the skin.

ce
PART TWO

CASTRATION OF FEMALES
(SPAYING, OOPHORECTOMY,
OVARIOTOMY)

SECTION I

VAGINAL OVARIOTOMY OF THE
MARE
(CHARLIER’S METHOD)

Not infrequently it becomes necessary to castrate
mares for the correction of ailments involving the
ovaries. The principal disturbance caused by degen-
erative changes in the ovaries, is nymphomania, which
so often causes viciousness that mares thus affected are
very unsatisfactory in service at the time of the estral
period, displaying various undesirable traits such as
kicking, biting and striking, and many of them are
line grippers. Maniacal symptoms always predominate
in these mares and their frequent stopping to eject
small amounts of urine and the protrusion to view of
the erected clitoris, makes them repulsive as well as
harmful.

When consulted, veterinarians should urge the un-
sexing of such animals as it is the only sensible mode
of correcting this condition. Other corrective opera-
tions have been performed, resulting in recovery in
some eases, but they are not to be recommended. Am-

89
90 ANIMAL CASTRATION

putation of the clitoris has been known to cause the
complete cessation of the manifestations of nympho-
mania, the pain and discomfort inflicted on the animal
being sufficient to check the signs of sexual desire, but
where there is involvement of the ovaries, such an
operation is an irrational procedure inasmuch as it does
not tend to remove the cause. Caudal myectomy has
also been resorted to in line grippers to correct this
viee, and while it effects a greater degree of safety in
the driving of the mare, this, too, fails to reach the
actual cause and except to correct the habit of line
gripping is not to be encouraged. The condition of
nymphomania still continues in spite of clitoridectomy
or caudal myectomy.

Preparation of the Subject.—Mares should be given
a purge 48 hours before the time set for the operation,
and they should be dieted, receiving only very light
concentrates, including bran.

Restraint and Anesthesia—Subjects may he han-
dled cither in the standing position without complete
anesthesia, or confined in recumbency and anesthetized
with chloroform. The standing operation is preferable
as it renders a eood technic much easier of execu-
tion. Partial anesthesia may he accomplished by the
adininistration of two or three grains of morphin
given subcutaneously, and an ounce of chloral hydrate
given per os ina capsule. These agents should be given
about an hour before the operation is performed. The
tail should be bandaged from the base outward for
about eighteen inches and then tied to one side. For
restraint a stanchion or stocks may be employed, or the
mare may be held by means of a hippo-lasso and twitch.
Jf confined within «a stanchion, a eross har should be
placed just a little higher than the hocks, and the
CASTRATION OF FEMALES 91

subject crowded back to assume a position in close
contact with the cross bar, precluding the elevation
of the hind legs which might endanger the operator and
injure the animal as well. The subject should be pre-
vented from lying down by means of girths, and a rope
or strap should be passed over the back.

 

 

 

 

Fig. 16—A FORM QF HIPPO-LASSO
Illustrating a suitable mode of restraint for vaginal oophorectomy of the
mare by means of a form of hippo-lasso as employed by the author.

Preoperative Preparation and Technic.—The ex-
ternal perineal region is then scrubbed with soap and
water, and the vavinal canal irrigated with a one-half
of one per cent solution of lysol. Pledgets of cotton
may be used to swab out the vaginal canal, though
this is not imperative.

The introduction of water in the vaginal canal stimu-
lates a ballooning of its walls. This is a normal physio-
logical function vested in this structure and makes
92 ANIMAL CASTRATION

the walls very tense—a condition which greatly facili-
tates the performance of the operation. In some mares
this tensity of the vaginal walls does not continue for
a very long time and while the injection of additional
quantities of warm water may cause ballooning to
recur, this procedure is unnecessary, as the operator
ean, by placing the end of a blunt embryotomy hook
against the inferior vagino-urethral juncture, just be-
low the external os, and gently pushing forward, tense
the wall sufficiently to incise the vaginal wall with
safety.

Making the incision through the vaginal wall is the
most dangerous part of this operation, as it is easily
possible to wound the aorta or one of the iliac arteries,
if the utmost care and thought are not exercised in
this move. As a matter of precaution these vessels
should be located by palpation, this is readily accom-
plished as their pulsations are easily recognized.

Because of the changed relationship of the struc-
tures when the vaginal wall is ballooned, the knife is
simply thrust forward, but if the wall is tensed by
artificial means, the incision is made in an upward and
forward direction, and under these conditions there is
more likelihood of the large vessels becoming injured
should the animal struggle when the incision is made.

The Inhricated hand conveying an ordinary hooked
castrating blade or other suitable knife, is introduced
and an opening made in the wall very near the median
line of the superior vaginal wall in the immediate
region of the fornix; this incision should at first be
long enough to permit the penetration of the finger,
and may be enlarged by simply forcing the other fingers
eradually, and finally the hand, through the vaginal
wall into the peritoneal cavity. Caution should he
CASTRATION OF FEMALES 93

taken to avoid separating the peritoneum from the
muscular portion of the wall, lest a pocket or sae be
formed which in retaining wound seeretions would be
likely to cause local post-operative infection and result
in generalized septic peritonitis. There is little danger
of doing injury to the vessels or to the rectum, however,
if the operator uses a reasonable degree of care in his
work,

Finding the Ovary.—The hand is pushed through
the incision in the vaginal wall into the peritoneal
cavity and thence turned downward and forward, and
the body of the uterus may he readily located. The
horns of the uterus bifurcate at almost right angles,
and by tracing them out, the ovary is found suspended
by means of the broad ligament; it is then secured
within the grasp of the fingers and drawn into the
vaginal canal if the ligament is sufficiently long or
lax to permit this. In some mares the ovary seems to
be suspended in a rather elevated position in the sub-
lumbar region, and the broad ligament is really broad
and short, making it impossible to bring the ovary
down through the vaginal wall into the canal. In
such cases, it is best to twist the ovary a few turns
causing the expansion of its supporting ligament to be-
come grouped in a cord-like mass. This readily allows
the structure to be grasped by the spaying emasculator
or ecraseur, and facilitates amputation.

After having removed the ovary by means of a suit-
able spaying emasculator, it is confined within the hand
and the other ovary is removed in the same manner.
If it is possible—and it usually is—to draw the organ
into the vaginal canal before amputating, it is left
in the canal until both are severed; thus both are re-
94 ANIMAL CASTRATION

moved from the canal at the same time and the hand
is not withdrawn. until the operation is completed.

After-Care.—No attentive alter-care is necessary
following this operation except that the animal should
be observed for a few hours as colic sometimes occurs.
Mares should be given a laxative diet and observed
daily lest constipation result because of the pain which
attends defecation for a few days after the operation.

Results.—In cases of chronic nymphomania in older
mares where the condition has existed for a few years,
complete recovery from it should not be expected im-
mediately. The process is gradual and sometimes not
completely satisfactory for a few months.

This operation has been performed under very ad-
verse conditions in fillies eighteen months of age (nor-
mal animals) with results which justify the advisability
of spaying in every case of nymphomania. Done with
reasonable skill, the mortality from this operation is
very low.
SECTION 11
VAGINAL OVARIOTOMY OF THE COW

The general reason for castrating cows is for the
purpose of removing one or both ovaries when diseased.
In certain cases of degenerative involvement of one or
both of the ovaries resulting in the animals being
‘‘Bullers,’’ cows are spayed with the object of fatten-
ing them for market. In some cases where one ovary
becomes hypertrophic and considerably indurated as a
result of cyst formation, and nymphomania develops in
an otherwise good milk cow, it is advisable to remove
the diseased gland. Some authorities claim that spay-
ing, if done at the proper time, prolongs the period of
lactation for several years.

This method of spaying is employed in animals suffi-
ciently large to easily permit the introduction of the
hand into the vaginal canal, and is preferable to making
the flank incisions because there are no exposed wounds
resulting. This technic may be employed with safety
during fly-time without any especial after-attention.

Preparation of the Subject.—Food should be with-
held for 24 hours and a purgative dose of magnesium
sulphate given 12 to 18 hours before operating.

Restraint and Anesthesia.—Animals are preferably
confined in the standing position within a stanchion or
narrow stall, it being unnecessary ordinarily to resort
to the use of ropes or other appliances to further hold
the animal if the head is closely and securely fastened.

95
96 ANIMAL CASTRATION

One to one-half ounces of chloral hydrate dissolved in
a quart of water given as a drench twenty minutes be-
fore the operation is begun will serve to diminish sensi-
bility very materially.

Technic.—The tail should he tied to one side and
the external perineum thoroughly cleansed with soap
and water and the vaginal canal irrigated with a one-
half of one per cent solution of lysol in warm water.
In cows it is necessary to employ a vaginal speculum
or to use other means for tensing the wall, as it does
not balloon as in mares. The wall having been tensed,
which may be done as described in the chapter on spay-
ing mares, the operation is conducted exactly the same
as this operation on a mare, the operator remembering,
however, the difference in the disposition of the uterine
cornua, and that the ovaries are suspended in a some-
what different manner than in the mare; yet, by trae-
ing out the horns from the body of the uterus, no diffi-
culty should be encountered in locating the ovaries.

After-Care and Results.—No after-care is necessary
ordinarily. The animal should be allowed a moderate
degree of exercise and given a laxative diet. In ani-
mals that are chronic ‘‘Bullers,’’ where there is a sink-
ing of the sacro-sciatic hgament, a flaccid condition of
the vulva and the existence of almost perpetual estrum,
it is not reasonable to expect that the removal of a
diseased ovary will effect a complete correction of the
ailment.
SECTION III

CASTRATION OF HEIFERS

The current demand for desirable breeding animals
has reduced the practice of castration of heifers, a pro-
cedure quite eemmon in the past. It is not done ex-
tensively at the present time, exeept in a few instances
where range cattle are spayed to avoid the confusion
of brands--the obvious result if ‘‘open’’ heifers were
sold and put at large on the ranges. This operation is
also necessary at times for the profitable feeding of
virgin females for market.

Age.—The best age for spaying heifers is before
their first estral period, but since this operation is done
by the flank route, it is sometimes impossible, as their
first estval period may manifest itself during midsum-
mer, and it is not best to operate during fly-time if il
is possible to do it at any other time.

Preparation of the Subject.—Heifers at grass re-
quire no preoperative preparation except the withhold-
ing of food for 24 hours and water for about 12 hours
preceding the operation. This allows sufficient time for
the evacuation of most of the intestinal content and
makes for a more comfortable handling of the ease,
for both the operator and the subject.

Restraint— Animals should be confined either in the
standing position or in lateral recumbency. If han-
dled in the standing position, and large numbers are
to be spayed at once, it is advisable to build a suitable

97
98 ANIMAL CASTRATION

chute, this chute connecting by means of a long run-
way with a small lot or corral, enabling the expeditious
management of large numbers without undue delay or
accidents.

The head should be held by means of stanchion bars,
and the animals may be prevented from lying down
by means of girths or cross bars. A gate should be pro-
vided for on the side of the chute to permit ready
access to the flank of the subject.

When animals are handled in large numbers in the
recumbent position they are usually confined by means
of ropes with the aid of saddle horses and are east and
‘“stretched.’’? A rope about the neck ineluding one or
both front fect, is held taut also by means of a horse
and rider, and another rope about the hind legs serves
to confine {he animal on its side. This position, how-
ever, has the disadvantage of over-tensing the abdom-
inal muscles, and it is preferable to secure the upper
hind leg only. This may be done by an assistant hold-
ing the same as illustrated in the accompanying cut.

Preparation of the Surgical Area.—In young heifers,
it is hest to operate on the left side, but in larger ani-
mals, heeause of the bulk of the ramen, it is perhaps
found easicr to invade the right flank.

The hair is clipped from a liberal porition between
the external iliac angle and the last rib, just below the
transverse lumbar process, and this area is scrubbed
with a two per cent solution of Liquor Cresolis Composi-
tus or some other suitable antiseptic.

Operative Technic.—An incision is then made with
some good spaying knife through the skin and fascia,
of proper length to enable the ready introduction of
the operator’s hand. It is a matter of personal choice
as to which particular style of instrument is to be
CASTRATION OF FEMALES 99

employed in this operation. The skin having been in-
cised, the point of the knife is thrust into the abdominal
musculature for a sufficient depth to allow the introdue-
tion of a finger into the structures for the purpose of
separating muscular fibers and these are separated by
forcing the hand through the structures. It is wise to
avoid transverse division of the muscular fibers, more
prompt healing of the wound results if the intererossing
muscular fibers are not severed, as spontaneous closure
of the incision occurs almost iminediateiy after the
hand has been withdrawn from the peritoneal cavity.

The ovaries are sought by introducing the hand into
the peritoneal cavity, keeping it in immediate contact
with the parietal peritoneum and turning the hand in
a backward direction toward the shaft of the ilium.
For the beginner this may serve as a landmark, and
he may earry the hand from this point to the pubis,
there locating the bladder; and immediately above the
bladder, the body of the uterus is easily found. By
tracing out the bifureating cornua, the ovary situated
opposite the point of entry is first secured and ampu-
tated by means of suitable scissors or spaying emas-
culator. The instrument is introduced alongside the
forearm of the operator, and the amputation of the
ovary is done within the peritoneal cavity. The re-
maining ovary is removed in a like manner and the
hand is withdrawn then, bringing both glands with it.

The abdominal muscles and peritoneum are not
sutured. The skin and fascia are united by means of
two or three interrupted sutures of heavy linen or
silk material. This is done by means of a large, heavy
spear-pointed needle, and this part of the operation
may well be delegated to an assistant where animals
are handled in large numbers. If it is necessary to
100 ANIMAL CASTRATION

operate in fly-time, the wound should be covered with
pine tar and no after-care given except that the ani-
mals should not be allowed the run of premises where
it is possible for them to overeat. They should be ecare-
fully herded for the first 24 or 48 hours in order to
prevent their being obliged to travel any great dis-
tance for food and water.

Results.—Mortality from this operation is very low.
Facts show that in competent hands, the fatalities from
restraining and handling of the animals are far ereater
than those caused hy the surgical operation or sequela
directly resulting therefrom. The losses may be esti-
mated at from one-fourth of one per cent to two per
eent where conditions are favorable.
SECTION IV

CASTRATION OF SOWS

As has been said of heifers, the increased demand
for sows suitable for breeding purposes has led to a
noticeable conservation of these animals. The females
of better stock are too valuable for spaying, generally,
and those that are fed for market are usually fattened
hefore the estral period attending puberty materially
interferes, or else they are bred while being fattened.

Preparation of the Subject.—Iood and water should
he withheld 12 hours before operating, and the animal
should be kept in clean quarters for a certain limited
time prior, so that the skin may not be in a badly
soiled condition.

Age for Operating.—Sows are best handled from two
to four months of age.

Restraint.—The animal should be confined upon some
suitably improvised operating table which is positioned
in a sloping manner to cause the head of the subject
to hang considerably lower than the hind quarters,
and either the right or left flank of entry is convenient.

Preparation of the Surgical Area.—The hair is then
clipped from a liberal space in the flank region ante-
rior to the external angle of the ilium, and the field
cleansed by means of a swab and gasoline and imme-
diately painted with tineture of iodin.

Technic.—In small sows, an incision of sufficient
size to admit one or two fingers, is made through the
skin, fascia and abdominal mucles. With large adult

101
102 ANIMAL CASTRATION

animals, it is necessary to make an ample opening for
the introduction of the operator’s hand into the peri
toneal cavity.

The ovaries then are sought and will be found in
much the same manner as described for the castration
of other females, being attached to a very long and
lax broad ligament which will permit of their being
brought to the surface and amputated on the outside
of the peritoneal cavity. The skin and abdominal mus-
cles then should be united by means of from two to
four interrupted sutures, using braided silk for this
purpose. It is not essential to suture the peritoneum.
The wound should be covered with pine tar and no
alter-eare is necessary except that the animals be
given freedom of clean quarters, preferably at grass,
aud where other animals will not molest them,
SECTION V

CASTRATION OF THE DOG
(SPAYING)

A veterinarian’s ability as a general practitioner
is often estimated by the results he has achieved in
the unsexing of female dogs and there are few opera-
tions that he is called upon to perform which are
more likely to bring him into disrepute among his c¢li-
entele if the outcome is not perfectly satisfactory in
every respect. As there are some cases where the
execution of a good technique is almost impossible
where the operation is done without proper facilities,
hy one not thoroughly accustomed to doing it, it there-
fore hehooves the veterinarian to familiarize himself
with every detail of this operation.

Females of the canine species, especially those of
the larger breeds which Icad an outdoor life, should
certainly be castrated if undesirable for breeding pur-
poses. This applies also to female house dogs in the
city which not only are a souree of a great deal of
annoyance in a neighborhood, but are likewise very
troublesome to their owners, if not closely confined
at certain periods. Moreover, the promiscuous gath-
ering of all sorts of males occasioned by a female at
large when in heat, constitutes e direct menace in the
spreading of various diseases such as distemper, mange,
and even rabies.

Age for Operating.—Animals that are in a healthy
condition are generally operated on between the ages

103
104 ANIMAT: CASTRATION

of six and nine months, and there is no good reason
why it should not be done at even an earlier age. In
collies or certain breeds of watch dogs, spaying is
best done at the age of six months, as there is a tend-
eney toward the accumulation of too much fat when
this operation is deferred until the subject has matured.

Operating during the estral period should be avoided
if possible. While estrum is manifested by a conges-
tion of the vulva, yet marked congestion of the ova-
ries and oviduets persists in some cases for weeks after
external signs of estrum have subsided.

Anatomy of the Structures Directly Concerned.—
Since these animals are multiparous, the uwferine eornua
are well developed and the body of the uterus is small
and rather undeveloped. The horns are supported by
the broad ligaments whieh are of sufficient growth
usually to permit the ovaries being readily drawn to
the surface of an abdominal incision made at the linea
alba. The ovaries are almost completely encapsulated
within the broad ligament; the size of the oviduets
varies materially in different subjeets and not in pro-
portion to the size of the animal,—those having been
pregnant possessing oviduets proportionately larger
than those found in puppies not having reached the
age of puberty. During the estral period, the oviducts,
because of their congestion, are very large, and this
fact serves to confuse the inexperienced operator
whose tactile sense has not been trained to guide hin.

There are no other struetural differences of the gen-
italia sufficiently important to warrant further con-
sideration,

Preparation of the Subject.— Where the operation is
performed in a hospital equipped with proper faeili-
ties for the safe handling of animals, the subject should
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 105

be given a bath, food withheld for 24 hours, and the
intestinal tract emptied by giving a dose of castor oil,
and later enemas.

Animals should not be confined within a cage con-
tinuously during the process of preoperative prepara-
tion, but should be taken out to cneourage urination
and defecation.

There are occasions when the veterinarian is obliged
to operate without the advantages of hospital facili-
ties and sometimes he is required to perform the oper-
ation when he cannot give the patient proper prepa-
ration, but this has been done with good results in
the more hardy breeds; however, in view of the pos-
sibility of an unsatisfactory outcome, it is not wise 10
follow this praetice even in the cases of animals hav-
ing the more rugged constitutions.

Restraint.—The subject should be muzzled and con-
fined on an operating table or the body suspended by
means of tapes which are looped about the hind Ices
and hung upon nails driven in a wall. If a table is
available, the position of the animal may be changed
with ease and this greatly facilitates the execution of
the operative technie in that the tension of the mus-
cles of the abdominal wall at the site of operation
may be diminished if necessary, by changing the posi-
tion of the body from perpendicular to almost hori-
zontal,

Anesthesia.—This is one operation where there is
every reason for the employment of anesthesia of some
kind, and yet it is a deplorable fact that many animals
have been barbarously handled by inhumane operators
none too skillful in this branch of surgery. None of
our patients tolerate morphin ov anesthetic compounds
containing morphin better than dogs, and there is no
106 ANIMAL CASTRATION

excuse for any veterinarian not employing morphin or
some compound containing it, even though he has no

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fig. 17—THE ABOVE REPRESENTS A PRACTICAL MODE OF
RESTRAINT FOR SPAYING. THE SUBJECT SHOWN IS
UNDER COMPLETE ANESTHESIA

skilled assistant at hand.
Hl. M. C. has proved a very satisfactory agent, or
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 107

when available, a morphin and atropin combination
given subcutaneously about an hour before operating,
is a good practice. The amount of morphin given
varies somewhat with different operators, but from
one-half to one grain of morphin with 1-100 grain
atropin may be given animals weighing about 25
pounds, or larger doses may he used with safety where
no other anesthetic is used. The administration of
morphin an hour before the operation, usually causes
sufficient nausea and retching to empty the stomach,—
a very desirable effect in a subject that has not been
prepared for the operation. Where a trained assistant
is obtainable, anesthesia is completed by the adminis-
tration of either A. C. E. or chloroform.

Care should be taken during’ the administration of
the anesthetic, as a sudden change in position of the
subject from the horizontal to the vertical with the
abrupt throwing of the weight of the intestines upon
the diaphragm, is likely to cause arrest of respiration.
Where no operating table is in use, the position of the
body should be shifted gradually, and where animals
are simply hung by the hind legs, the change of position
must be accomplished with care.

Preparation of the Surgical Field.—lor a linea alba
incision, a liberal area in the prepubic region is lathered
and the hair shaved from a space from two to four
inches wide, extending as far forward as the xiphoid
cartilage. The soap is then removed with a mild anti-
septic solution and the skin dried and painted with tine-
ture of iodin. Towels may be folded in such manner
as to eover all the unshaved area, and these may be
suspended by means of intestinal clamps or other for-
ceps having limber jaws, by clamping the towels upon
the skin over the region of the tensor fascia lata.
108 ANIMAL CASTRATION

 

 

 

 

Fig. 18—-SHOWING MEDIAN LINE INCISION, IMMEDIATELY
POSTERIOR TO THE UMBILICUS
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 109

Operative Technic.—A median line incision is
made which is carried forward to the umbilical cicatrix.
This incision is generally made an inch and a half in
length though in some instances a {wo-inch incision is
preferable. The tissues ave divided carefully, and by
means of dressing foreeps one of the wound margins
may be drawn aside, enabling the operator to closely
observe and recognize the tissues as they are exposed
and divided. Some animals possess considerable fat
which hes between the subeuticular fascia in the ab-
dominal muscles, and this interferes somewhat with the
vision of the line of incision as it is carried through
the abdominal muscles. In such cases, one may remove
a portion of this fat by means of scissors, or an assist-
ant may, with the aid of a pair of forceps, retract the
wound margins enabling the operator to observe and
recognize the tissues as they are divided.

After having exposed the peritoneum, this may be
punctured by means of a tenotome, taking care not to
injure the bladder should it be greatly distended and
lying immediately in contact with the peritoneum at the
site of the incision. Following the perforation of the
peritoneum, the incision may be enlarged by use of
peritoneal scissors or with the aid of a grooved direc-
tor; by lifting and tensing the peritoneum, it is readily
divided with the scalpel or tenotome. It is best to avoid
enlarging the peritoneal opening by tearing as this
makes it impossible to control the direction of the
rent and an oblique or even a transverse rent may be
produced which is rather difficult to suture properly.

Finding the Ovaries.—Two general methods are em-
ployed for locating the ovaries—one by retracting the
wound margins, exposing the viscera to view and seiz-
ing the uterine horns with forceps withdrawing the
110 ANIMAL CASTRATION

ovaries without introducing the fingers into the peri-
toneal cavity. The other method consists in the intro-
duction of the index finger into the cavity, and by
tactile sense, seeking and removing the structures. It
is a matter of opinion with different operators as to
which method is preferable, so we shall describe the
latter one, just mentioned.

The index finger is introduced into the peritoneal
cavity, and for the beginner it is well to at once locate
the bladder which les diree‘ly in contact with the floor
of the abdomen in the prepubic region. In some cases
the bladder will be found to be greatly distended and
here it is well to apply a quantity of absorbent cotton
against the external genitals, lest manipulation cause
evacuation of some of its contents and add this possi-
bility of contamination to the exposed wound margins
and peritoneal cavity. After locating the bladder, the
operator will readily find the body of the uterus lying
just dorsally thereto; following out the uterine horn
from its bifureation, it may be crowded against the
parietal peritoneum and brought to the surface and by
employing traction upon it, the ovary is then carefully
drawn out of the cavity for amputation. In some eases,
hecause of the close attachment of the ovary, it he-
comes necessary to arch the spinal column of the sub-
ject to enable the withdrawal of the ovary to the
wound surface to avoid undue traction upon the struc-
tures which might result in rupture of the broad liga-
ment and possible retention of some ovarian tissue or
unnecessary hemorrhage.

As soon as the ovary has been brought to the sur-
face of the abdominal wound, it is seized by means of
suitable forceps and twisted in such manner that the
oviduct and suspending broad ligament are brought in
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 111

immediate contact and quickly clamped with a heavy
pair of dressing foreeps. The operation is completed
hy limited torsion accomplished by twisting with the
spaying forceps and an intrascapular ablation is in
this manner effected. The remaining ovary is removed
in the same manner and in cases where no marked con-
gestion of the ovary and oviducts exists, as is obvious

 

 

 

 

Fig. 19—THE OVARY, HAVING BEEN BROUGHT TO THE SUR-
FACE, IS SHOWN CONTAINED WITHIN THE GRASP OF THE
SPAYING FORCEPS; A PORTION OF THE BROAD LIGA-
MENT AND THE OVIDUCT ARE SECURED BETWEEN THE
JAWS OF COMPRESSION FORCEPS

during estrum, this method of removal of the ovaries
positively prevents serious hemorrhage.

Where it is found upon exposing the ovaries that the
structures are greatly enlarged and congested because
of the remaining effect of estrum, it is well to ligate
with gut suture material, the broad ligament including
the ovarian artery proximal to the ovary. Also an-
112 ANIMAL CASTRATION

other ligature is applied about the oviduet and intra-
capsular ablation of the ovary is effected with scissors.
In this way hemorrhage is controlled by ligation
en masse of all structures on either side of the ovary.
After the stumps of the amputated oviduets are re-
turned to the peritoneal cavity, the abdominal wound is
closed by means of two rows of sutures. The perito-
neum and abdominal muscles are seized by means of

 

 

 

|e

 

Fig. 20—COMPLETING THE PROCESS OF J-IMITED TORSION
FOR AMPUTATION OF THE OVARY

tissue forceps and with full enurved needle armed with
sterile gut No. 0, a continuous suture is made, inelud-
ing both the peritoneum and the abdominal muscles.
The skin and fascia are united by means of a continuous
suture of sterile silk or chromic gut No. 2, leaving at
one commissure a space of about one-eighth of an inch
in length unsutured, for drainage. <A drainage open-
ing is not imperative where a perfeet technie is exe-
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 113

cuted, as union by first intention should result. The
skin wound should then be sealed with flexible collo-
dion, with the exeeption of the small opening (where
an opening for drainage is provided for), for the
escape of wound seeretion should any infection oceur.

The wound is then covered with sterile absorbent cot-
ton whieh may be held in position with a many-tailed
handage or by means of a fold of sterile gauze, this to

 

 

 

 

vie I SEURE, BOE COPUTATION, OF HR PERTONEOM
POSITION HERE

be made seeure with strips of adhesive tape encircling

the body.

After-Care.—The wound should be carefully in-
spected alter 48 hours, and if there is any evidence
of infection, gentle manipulation may be employed to
foree secretions out of the small opening which has
been left for this contingeney, taking care not to
interfere with existing primary union of tissue else-
114 ANIMAL CASTRATION

where. Where no provision for drainage has been
made and infection has oeecurred early, surgical re-
moval of pus should be done that no interference with
primary union exists. The skin suture should be re-
moved in four or five days. The animal should receive
a light laxative diet following this operation and mod-
erate exercise permitted.

 

 

 

 

z

 

Fig. 22—THE SKIN AND FASCIA HAVE BEEN JOINED WITH A
CONTINUOUS SUTURE WHICH IS FIXED BY TYING TO-
GETHER THE SINGLE END OF THE THREAD ON ONE SIDE
WITH THE DOUBLE END ON THE OTHER

Sequelae

Shock.—While the operation is in progress, mani-
festation of shock is sometimes noticeable, and very
careful attention to the administration of the anesthetic
is necessary, especially in the case of delicate animals
as certain breeds of toy dogs, or those of the more
highly sensitive organism. The preoperative adminis-
tration of atropin is very beneficial in that the respira-
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 115

tory center is stimulated and fatal shock is generally
avoided. Where good surgical anesthesia is difficult
to maintain, as it is in some cases, the application of
heat by means of a hot water bag applied to the spinal
column, is of obvious benefit.

When respiration is suddenly arrested, the operation
should he discontinued at onee and the abdominal
wound hastily closed by clamping the margins of the
skin together with a hemostat, and if the heart has not
actually become quiet, artificial respiration should be
quickly employed. Rhythmic traction of the tongue
may be of service and inhalations of aqua ammonia are
beneficial.

Hemorrhage.—In occasional cases, post-operative
hemorrhage occurs and persists until the patient is
weakened to such a degree that death results in from
24 to 48 hours after the operation. This sometimes
happens in subjee‘’s that have been operated upon be-
fore the expiration of the estral period and where am-
putation of the ovaries has been effected without due
regard to ligation or careful execution of hemostatic
means by torsion.

Where capillary hemorrhage continues in sufficient
degree to cause the cseane of a quantity of blood in the
peritoneal cavity without its assuming immediately
dangerous proportions, the administration of from 1-250
to 1-50 grain of atropin subeutaneously, will be found
very helpful. Such hemorrhage is not likely to prove
fatal.

Infection—The operator should constantly bear in
mind the urgency of cleanliness in this work. While
these canine subjects are quite resistant to infection,
yet some cases of fatal septic peritonitis have been pro-
duced by general practitioners not having the essential
116 ANIMAT CASTRATION

regard for the importance of asepsis, who by neglecting
to attend to the thorough cleansing of the hands, bring
to their work the unnecessary danger of contamination
from previous dressing of suppurating wounds. Local
infections are sometimes met with and are treated by
providing drainage, removing surface sutures and swab-
bing the depths of the wound with tineture of iodin,
but where infection becomes generalized to the extent
of septie peritonitis, there is little chance for recovery
in spite of any resouree of seienee. A carefully exe-
euted technic with due regard to asepsis is the most
important prophylactic measure to be considered by the
veterinarian for this operation,

Hernia.—Hernia may be omental or intestinal. In
some cases, a portion of the omentum is ineluded within
the margin of the wound and a sufficient particle pro-
trudes causing a shght blemish, and in some few
instanees causes tension producing pain, which the
animal manifestly indicates at different times by its
actions. This is evidenced by arching the back and a
reluctance to any abrupt or decided movement of the
hody. A careful examination of the patient with its
abdominal muscles completely relaxed should he made,
if possible, and constriction of the omentum may be
readily recognized hy digital manipulation.

Intestinal hernia may be occasioned by an accidental
rent in the peritoneum made in such manner that it is
then difficult to approximate margins,—this condition
resulting from a lack of care on the part of the surgeon
to closely observe the emergency at the time and make
provision for perfect ecoaptation of the divided struc-
tures.

Where hernia exists, either omental or intestinal,
animals should be prepared, confined and anesthetized

 
CASTRATION OF THE DOG 117

as for spaying, and exploratory laparotomy done, ex-
posing the hernial opening, breaking down adhesions
if any exist and the wound then closed as has been de-
seribed in the technique for spaying.

Eventration.—In some cases where the subject has
not been bandaged, ov where for some reason the wound
oceasions pain, the animal has been known to remove
sutures with the teeth before adhesion of the wound
margins has taken place. Sometimes eventration re-
sults and expesure of a large portion of the intes-
tine and omentum may oceur. Such cases are to be
handled along gencral surgical principles, the exposed
viscera thoroughly cleansed with sterile water or with
a normal saline solution, and if not irreparably injured,
the parts are then replaced and the wound again
sutured. Some operators use wire sutures in the skin
to prevent this occurrence. Cases of eventration are
very rare from this cause, however, where a reasonably
careful technie has been observed.

Recurrent Estrum.—Recurrence of the estral period
after the operation is seen in some cases. It is claimed
by some that this condition occurs even when the opera-
tion has been properly performed, but we consider this
an excuse for the execution of a faulty technic, con-
tendine that if every portion of the ovarian tissue
is removed, there will be no recurrence of estrum re-
eardless of the age of the animal at the time of the
operation.

Tf post-operative estral periods manifest themselves,
it is necessary to do an exploratory laparotomy making
a large free incision ample to permit a careful and com-
plete visual examination of the peritoneal cavity. This
is done only after all the precautions have been ob-
served as heretofore deseribed for spaying, and a suffi-
118 ANIMAL CASTRATION

cient amount of broad ligament is then amputated by
complete excision ; this will insure the complete removal
of all remaining ovarian tissue and the recurrent estral
periods will subside unless there is in existence degen-
erative changes involving the uterus or portions of the
horns whieh are usually left. Should this be the cause
of manifestation of estrum the symptoms of heat will
not be typical, nor will they exist in a marked degree,
but in such cases the removal of the diseased struc-
tures is indicated.
SECTION VI

CASTRATION OF THE CAT
(SPAYING)

The principal reason for unsexing female cats is to
prevent the annoyance occasioned by estrum and its
usual culmination in pregnancy with the too frequent
reproduction of undesirable offspring.

Age for Overating.—Animals that are in a thrifty
condition are best unsexed when about six or eight
months of age. However, this operation may be per-
formed when the cat is fully matured and the operation
has not proved impractical in subjects grown to five or
six years of age, Reason convinces us, though, that
the attendant shock would naturally be much greater
in animals of advanced years.

Anatomy.—The principal structural differences in
the parts directly concerned for the operation of spay-
ing, between the cat and the dog, are that the cat
possesses a very thin abdominal wall, longer uterine
horns and smaller ovaries. The oviducts and ovaries
of the cat are not dissimilar to those of the sow.

Preparation of the Subject.—Food should be with-
held for 24 hours and a laxative given. During the pre-
paratory period they should be kept in clean, comfort-
able quarters that are quiet and secluded, and pro-
vided with a box of sawdust or sand to cneourage nor-
mal bowel] evacuation.

Restraint.—As has been mentioned in the castration
of male cats, these animals should be gently and care-
fully handled because of their peculiarly sensitive or-

119
120 ANIMAL CASTRATION

ganism and nervous temperament. Kew persons appre-
ciate this finer nature of the cat and its susceptibility to
fear and strange environment. Females are confined by
being rolled in a blanket or sheet until completely anes-
thetized, when they may be supported by means of tapes
or bandages, the same as indicated lor dogs.

Anesthesia.—I*or the producing ol complete anes-
thesia which is necessary lor spaying, A.C. E. in pro-
portions of one part alcohol, two parts chloroform and
three parts ether, constitutes a very satisfactory prep-
aration, and it is desirable to give 1-500 to 1-250 grain
atropin sulphate one-hall hour before giving the anes-
thesia. Alkaloidal salts of opium when used in suffi-
ciently large dosage to effect narcosis, are too likely to
result in over-excitement with more or less delirium.
This is, therefore, not to he considered as a satisfactory
agent.

Preparation of the Surgical Area.—Laparotomy for
spaying may be done either in the median line or in the
region of the flank, though the flank route is preferable
for the reason that cats are very inactive when sub-
jected to confinement after operating, and generally
assume and retain the position of sternal reeumbency.
While in this position the constant tension and pressure
upon the wound seems to be eondueive to necrosis and
sepsis, Whereas a flank incision is so situated that less
strain is brought to bear upon the structures, and little
or no pressure is exerted upon the area of surgical in-
vasion.

A liberal arca in the flank region is next thoroughly
lathered and shaved and the skin dried and painted
with tineture of iodin. Coal tar derivatives are to be
avoided as anlisepties, as cats are very suseeptible to
compounds containing cresylie acid. A 1 to 5000 solu-
CASTRATION OF THE CAT 121

tion of chinosol in sterile water makes a very satisfae-
tory working solution.

Technic.
ward in the space between the external iliae spine and
the last rib, this incision being of sufficient length to

An ineision is made downward and. for-

 

 

|
Fig. 23—FLANK INCISION FOR SPAYING THE CAT

 

permit the retraction of the abdominal wall to ailow a
visual examination of the peritoneal cavity. The ut-
most caution should be exercised in making this incision
as the skin and abdominal muscles of the eat are very
thin, and to one inexperienced in laparotomy in these
subjects, it is easily possible to accidentally wound the
viscera by misjudging tissue resistance to the edge of
the knife. By retracting the margins of the abdominal
wounds with forceps, one may locate the uterine hor
nearest the side of entry which is seized with tissue
foreeps and brought to the surface, Then, by grasping
122 ANIMAL CASTRATION

the horn with the fingers and exerting traction upon it,
the ovary is readily withdrawn and amputated as has
been described for the same operation in female dogs.
By retaining the amputated end of the uterine horn and
employing traction upon same, the bifureation of the
uterus is brought to view by means of forceps and the
remaining horn is removed in like manner. The
abdominal wound is sutured by means of a continu-
ous suture ineludine the peritoneum and abdominal
muscles. For this purpose No. 00 sterile gut suture
material is to be preferred, and the skin and fascia
are united by means of another suture of sterile chromic
gut, leaving the small opening at the lower commissure
for drainage of the wound. The wound is then sealed
with flexible collodion with the exception of the small
drainage opening which in itself should not exceed
one-quarter ineh in leneth. The entire abdominal
wall, including the surgical area is then covered with a
layer of sterile absorbent cotton to be teld in place by
means of a sterile gauze bandage which is snugly
wound around the subject’s body.

After-Care.—The bandage should be removed daily
for observation of the wound, and should signs of in-
fection be apparent, the wound secretion may be
foreed out hy gentle manipulation, taking eare not to
interfere with the primary union of the structures
surgically apposed. If no infection oeeurs and the
wound remains almost dry, there is no oceasion for
the application of antisepties or the further molesta-
tion of the wound.

Tt is not uncommon for cats to refuse all food for
two or three days or even a week following a major
operation, but this in itself does not necessarily con-
stitute an unfavorable symptom. The patients should
CASTRATION OF THE CAT 123

be made as comfortable as possible with respect to
temperature, and all excitement should be avoided.
It is best to offer them a tempting form of nourish-
ment such as nutritive liquid food—broths or milk—
or a little salmon or raw hamburger steak in small
quantities. A solid regimen is to be guarded against.
As mentioned heretofore for preoperative preparation,
provision should be made for the encouragement of
urination and defecation by placing within their reach
a pan of sawdust or clean sand.

Sequele

Shock.—In singular instances, shock occurs and is
manifested by muscular tremors, acceleration of the
pulse and irregular respiration, but such disturbanee
is not likely to attend an ordinary spaying operation.
To alleviate this condition, applications of external
heat and the subeutaneous administration of 1-500
grain each of atropin sulphate and strychnin sulphate
will be found beneficial.

Constipation.—Following any major operation, cats
are prone to become constipated heeause of the in-
activity due to their natural timidity. Obstinate econ-
stipation following laparotomy is often accompanied
by wound infection and subecuticular necrosis some-
times involving extensive areas, and in some cases
there oceurs sloughing of large pieces of skin. A
daily examination of the wound should he made to
detect early signs of pus and infection, and it should
he evacuated surgically before extensive destruction
of tissue results. The injection of hydrogen peroxide
or solutions of chinosol 1 to 5000, in the wound, is in-
dicated in these cases,
APPENDIX

Equine Umbilical Hernia

This affection occurs in all animals and with respect
to numbers affected, subjects of the equine species
rank first among our patients. The nature of this
form of hernia is such that veterinarians are fre-
quently asked to treat these cases during the castrat-
ing season. Causes of umbilical hernia may be con-
sidered under two classifications, congenital and occa-
sional or traumatic. Since the proportion of cases that
are not congenital is insignificant, the occasional cases
will receive no further consideration here.

During intra-uterine life, as soon as the visceral
organs have attained considerable size, there is not
sufficient room within the splanchnic cavity for all of
the viscera. Accommodation of this normally splanch-
nectopie mass is afforded by the umbilical cord until
growth of the abdominal cavity favors a return of the
viscera and contraction of the abdominal walls around
the umbilicus takes place. In some cases, for reasons
not definitely known, there is failure of complete clos-
ure of the abdominal walls around the ring, and the
result is hernia. Rupture of the umbilical cord usually
takes place at its weakest and most constricted part,
which, in foals, is about an inch and a half from the
body. With rupture of the cord there occurs marked
retraction of the ends of the umbilical arteries and
some retraction of veins and constriction of the stump

125
126 ANIMAL CASTRATION

of the cord. In the normal subject the lumen of the
cord is not sutticiently large to permit of hermia. Des-
iceation and cicatrization of the stump of the cord
completes the process of normal spontaneous healing
of the navel.

In umbilical hernia the margins of the opening in
the abdominal wall is usually somewhat thickened, and
in some eases the margin of the peritoneum is firmly
adherent to the margin of the abdominal opening. In
cases that have been unsuccessfully treated, where
clamps or skewers have been employed, considerable
hypertrophy of all tissue surrounding the opening in
the abdominal muscles exists. Jn addition to this
there is present more or less fibrous or cicatricial
tissue, which renders permanent closure of the abdom-
inal opening difficult in some cases.

Symptoms of umbilical hernia are the presence of
fluetuating swelling at the navel, which is usually suffi-
ciently free from adhesions that reduction is easily
effected and the margins of the opening are readily
outlined by palpation. This may he done by returning
the contents of the pouched mass into the peritoneal
cavity while the colt is in a standing position. When
a subject is placed in dorsal recumbeney, spontaneous
reduction of umbilical hernia usually occurs, but im-
mediately intra-abdominal pressure is inereased by re-
sistance of confinement or straining, the hernial pouch
is at once filled with intestine or omentum and it so
remains until relaxation of the abdominal muscles and.
diaphragm occurs.

Umbilical hernia is distinguished from abscess in
that abscess remains confined within the hounds of its
walls regardless of position assumed by the subject,
is therefore not reducible and has no patent communi-
APPENDIX 127

cating aperture with the peritoneal cavity. In short,
the pathognomonic symptom of hernia is. the finding
of the aperture in the abdominal wall through which
temporary reduction of the hernia may be effected.

The course of the affection is essentially chronic and
spontaneous recovery is rare. In cases where hernia
consists principally of omentum that protrudes through
a very small opening, adhesions take place and subse-
quent atrophy of the impinged structures and contigu-
ous tissue causes a very marked diminution in the
size of a previously small enlargement. In other cases
spontaneous closure of small herniv results from = in-
flammation probably incited by friction between the
contacting parts.

In colts treatment of umbilical hernia is a subject
wherein there exists much difference of opinion be-
tween veterinary practitioners. The best method of
handling any given surgical case is the one which is
the least likely to jeopardize the life of the subject and
at the same time effect a correction of the existing
condition whether pathological or otherwise undesir-
able.

Some hernia are permanently reduced by the use
of improvised trusses with or without the topical ap-
plication of agents which cause local inflammation.
The use of vesicants under cover of trusses or support-
ing bandages of any sort cannot be too strongly con-
demned from the standpoint of a surgical considera-
tion of asepsis. When the average improvised truss
or bandage is applied it is usually necessary, in order
to properly retain it in position, to employ straps or
other materials in such manner that pressure necrosis
of skin and underlying tissue may result. The writer
has observed one case of tetanus where apparently the
128 ANIMAL CASTRATION

contagium gained entrance by way of abrasions caused
hy straps and ropes used to hold in place an impro-
vised truss. Such erude methods are certainly in-
humane, slovenly and impractical.

lujeetions of certain agents, such as solutions of
silver nitrate, tincture of iodin and oil of turpentine,
in the parictes around the umbilical opening result in
the production of sufficient inflammation that recovery
is brought about in some cases, This method, however,
is not dependable. Local appheations of nitrie acid
by means of a glass rod in lines upon the skin or with
a swab over and around the hernia produces active
inflammation and stimulates recovery in many cases.
This method is crude, infliets much pain to the subject,
and may produce excessive sloughing of tissue, even-
tration and death.

Handling of umbilical hernia along lines that are
strictly surgical, is in the majority of cases the very
best method of procedure and reduction may he pro-
duced by means of skewers, clamps or sutures without
doing a herniotomy. Herniotomy is indicated in every
case where other means have failed and is preferable
in all cases where the hernia is large. Preoperative
preparation of the subject is advisable in large colts
and necessary where complete anesthesia is to be em-
ployed. Preparation consists of withholding all solid
or bulky food for 24 hours.

Restraint of the subject in dorsal reeumbeney is
necessary in all cases, and this is easily accomplished
in field work with the harness or ropes. Chloral
hydrate may be given per reetum a half hour before
operating, ov if thought necessary, complete anesthesia
may be employed. Where skewers are employed it is
advisable to clip away all hair, thoronehly cleanse the
APPENDIX 129

operative field, dry the surface and paint the skin
with tincture of iodin. The operator should have in
readiness all necessary equipment, including working
solution, silk or linen cord, vulsellum forceps, pincers
for amputating points of skewers, scissors and skewers.
One may employ ordinary hat pins for skewers as they
may be easily and almost painlessly passed through
the tissues and are in every way desirable when steril-
ized. The skin over the most pendent part of the cul-
de-sac is grasped with a pair of vulsellum forceps and
as soon as the relaxation of the abdominal wall occurs,
an assistant is instructed to employ sufficient traction
by means of forceps that an equal amount of tension
is exerted upon all parts of the pouched tissues. It is
desirable to tense these structures, enabling the oper-
ator to insert the skewers so that they will be situated
directly over the hernia and not on one side of it
when the animal is in a standing position. The base
of the pouch is grasped and two skewers are pushed
through the tissues at right angles with one another
and as near the abdominal aperture as possible. This
is done with care, after all ectopic structures have
been replaced.

A heavy cord is applied above the skewers and
the base of the pouched tissues is firmly ligated. An
elastic band may be applied over the cord to hasten
sloughing of the ligatured mass. The sharp points of
the skewers are removed with suitable cutters and the
operation is completed. No special after-care is re-
quired and sloughing of the strangulated mass takes
place in from one to three weeks. In some few in-
stances, because of desiccation of tissue, considerable
local infection and suppuration may ensue, necessitat-
ing removal by torsion and traction, the tardily seques-
130 ANIMAL CASTRATION

trating, pendent mass. Such cases need some local
treatment for a week or ten days.

This method of handling umbilical hernia is espe-
cially indicated in cases where the abdominal opening
is nearly circular in shape and not too large. It con-
stitutes a very safe and practical means of handling
hernia of colts eighteen months of age or less.

Clamps have a field of usefulness in certain cases
where there exists an oblong opening in the abdominal
wall and a laparotomy is thought inadvisable. There
are many patterns of clamps employed, but all are cal-
culated to bring about the same effect upon the tissues
that are confined within their grasp.

The same general technic is employed in the ap-
plication of clamps as in the use of skewers. The base
of the pouched skin and fascia is grasped and the
clamps are applied as closely as possible to the abdom-
inal wall and this directly over the central part of the
hernia.

Care should be exercised that too much pressure
is not exerted upon the tissues in large hernie,
that early sloughing and possible eventration may
be avoided. Some clamps are so constructed that they
may be in part supported by straps which encircle the
body of the subject. This affords a means of preserv-
ing the clamps when the tissues have sloughed, but
necessitates careful confinement of the subject lest the
clamp be prematurely dislodged by the girth or sup-
port being caught upon fences, walls, ete.

Hernie, umbilical and abdominal, have been re-
duced by means of sutures such as the cobbler’s stitch,
or mattress sutures. The principle of this method con-
sists in effecting apposition of tissues in a manner sim-
ilar to that done by clamps. The sutures are passed
APPENDIX 131

through and through all tissues at the base of the
diverticulum in such a manner that the entire mass is
comprised within the grasp of the sutures which really
constitute multiple ligatures.

Where herniotomy is to be done, general anesthesia
with chloroform is necessary. The field of operation
should be carefully cleansed, shaved, dried and painted
with tincture of iodin, and a large sterile towel or
cloth placed over the abdomen with an opening of
sufficient size made in it to expose the hernia. An ellip-
tical piece of skin and underlying fascia or other tissue
is then removed in just enough quantity to allow per-
fect apposition of the skin with sufficient tension to
reinforce the structures underneath.

The opening exposes to view the margins of the ab-
dominal aperture. If much cicatricial tissue result-
ing from previous interference exists, it may be neces-
sary to remove some of it with a scalpel or with heavy
dissecting scissors. If the opening is cireular, it is
advisable to remove a triangular portion of the mar-
ginal structure at the anterior and posterior parts,
making the opening near oval and permitting of more
nearly perfect approximation of the margins. Seari-
fication of the edges of the opening serves to increase
local inflammation and promote early adhesion of the
joined tissues.

Apposition of the margins of the subcuticular open-
ing by means of interrupted sutures of heavy chromic
gut or silk is effected. The sutures are set well back
of the margin and include peritoneum and all muscu-
lar structures. Tincture of iodin is applied to the
sutured tissues and the skin and fascia are joined by
mattress sutures of heavy silk. With careful technic,
primary union results.
132 ANIMAL CASTRATION

After-care consists in the restriction of violent exer-
cise in adult horses and avoidance of large quantites
of bulky food. Subjects are allowed the freedom of
pasture and are turned out and allowed to exercise at
will. Where they are kept away from the stables
and lots, no after-care is required. In the spring and
summer months, where this work can be done away
from contaminated stables and sheds, there is practi-
cally no danger from infection if care is taken to exe-
eute a reasonably good surgical technic.
CESAREAN SECTION IN THE SOW

When performed at the right time, there are few
operations that are productive of proportionately
greater profitable results than this. In every commu-
nity where hog raising is conducted there are certain
seasons when dystokia in sows is very prevalent, and in
many instances it is not to be ascribed to mismating or
to any one definite causative factor. In the experience
of every general practitioner in such localities, there
are times when his skill and patience are frequently
tried in handling cases of dystokia where he is un-
decided as to the feasibility of doing the cesarean
operation. When he does decide to operate as a last
resort and the result is unsatisfactory because of long
protracted labor or septicemia occasioned by injuries
to the vaginal and uterine membranes, inflicted with
various appliances in the hands of laymen in their at-
tempts to deliver the fetus, he is apt to view the situ-
ation, as frequently do his clients—that the cesarean
operation in the sow is impracticable. When this oper-
ation is performed as soon as it is evident that serious
dystokia is in existence and when the genitalia have
not been injured and infected as a result of manipu-
lation with obstetrical instruments, recovery should
obtain in at least 75 per cent of the cases operated
upon.

Indications for operating are cases of dystokia where
active labor is not productive of delivery within 12
to 18 hours after travail has begun. As soon as it is
evident that serious dystokia exists in any given case,

133
134 ANIMAL CASTRATION

there is every reason for operating early, and defer-
ring the operation until uterine atony and beginning
degenerative changes have taken place, lessens the
chances of recovery. As a rule swine withstand lap-
arotomies very well, and the cesarean operation should
be performed more frequently than it is in veterinary
practice, and when performed should be done early.

Anatomy.—There exists no essential difference in the
anatomy of the abdominal wall in the region anterior
to the external iliac spine from that of the horse, ex-
cept that in sows there is usually found a heavy layer
of fat interposed between the subcuticular fascia and
the external oblique muscle, and the musculature of
this region is proportionately less vascular than in the
horse.

The uterus and its horns are supported by an abund-
antly large, broad ligament. The body of the uterus
is very short and serves merely as a passageway be-
tween the horns and the vaginal canal. The uterine
horns are very long and necessarily tortuous, and it is
possible to bring any part of the horns to the surface
of an abdominal incision without difficulty.

Anesthesia.—The problem of anesthesia in this work
is one which has been given considerable thought by
operators because they have learned from experience
that many sows do not readily withstand the effect
of chloroform, frequent losses being directly due to
chloroform poisoning. Dilutions of chloroform such
as A.C. E. in proportion of one part of aleohol, two
parts chloroform and three parts of ether, constitute a
very satisfactory agent for the production of anesthesia
in selected cases. Subjects that have been bred, fed
and otherwise cared for so that they have matured
early, are apparently more susceptible to untoward re-
sults occasioned by inhalation anesthesia.
CESAREAN SECTION IN THE SOW 135

Rectal administration of chloral hydrate in dilutions
of one part of chloral hydrate to 12 parts of tepid
water, given in quantites of one drachm for each 100
pounds weight, will produce sufficient stupefaction to
enable the surgeon to do a satisfactory operation. In
a few cases a solution of chloral hydrate is not re-
tained, even when diluted with 16 parts of water.
This may be due to a supersensitive rectal mucosa or
a lax sphincter ani, and difficulties so encountered
may be overcome by clamping the anus with a pair
of forceps, thus preventing escape of the solution of
chloral hydrate until a marked anesthetic effect is evi-
dent. As soon as there is sufficient soporific effect mani-
fested the forceps should be removed to permit evacua-
tion of the contents of the rectum, and in cases where it
would seem necessary, the employment of an enema for
the removal of any excessive amount of chloral hydrate
is advisable.

Restraint.—If possible, the subject is placed upon
some sort of improvised operating table (a barn door
supported by tressels or boxes answers the purpose
very well) and ‘‘hog tied’’ leaving either the right or
left flank exposed for surgical invasion.

Equipment.—One should have at hand sterile towels
or sheets, two or three curved needles threaded with
silk, three or four curved cambric pointed needles
threaded with No. 1 chromic gut, a scalpel, Kelley
forceps, six or eight pairs of 8 or 10 inch compression
forceps, scissors, absorbent cotton, sterile gauze, and
a basin containing any suitable antiseptic solution such
as a one per cent solution of Liquor Cresolis Com-
positus.

Preparation of the Field of Operation.—The hair
should be clipped from a liberal area in the region
136 ANIMAL CASTRATION

just posterior to the last rib, and the skin may be
cleansed with a swab and gasoline and then painted
with tineture of iodin.

Technic.—An incision is made in the space be-
tween the external iliac spine and last rib, the direc-
tion of which is to be downward and forward and
of sufficient length to permit comfortable access for
manipulation of the parts to be dealt with. All of the
tissues comprising the abdominal wall are divided
with a scalpel, and hemorrhage, if of any consequence,
is controlled by means of forceps. The flank of the
subject is now covered with sterile towels and kept
so until the operation is completed.

The hand is introduced into the peritoneal cavity,
and by palpation it is determined whether one or
both horns are gravid and whether a fetus is lodged,
in part, in the body of the uterus. A horn (the one
nearest the abdominal incision if it is gravid), is
grasped and brought to the surface by gentle traction.
At this time it is necessary to carefully examine the
parts for the purpose of determining whether a hyster-
otomy or a hysterectomy is to be performed.

If there exists evidence of considerable emphysema
of the fetuses indicating that degenerative changes in-
volving the uterine horns have taken place, amputa-
tion of the uterus and horns should be decided upon.
If both horns are gravid and particularly if more than
one fetus is contained in each horn, hysterectomy
should be done; it is very difficult to do a hysterotomy
in such instances without producing laceration of some
part of one or both gravid horns with probable con-
tamination of the peritoneal cavity occasioned by es-
caping putrid fluids.

Where hysterectomy is decided upon the gravid horn
CESAREAN SECTION IN THE SOW 137

nearest the site of incision is entirely withdrawn from
the peritoneal cavity, and the broad ligament anterior
to the ovary is clamped with a pair of forceps. An-
other forcep is securely clamped near the ovary, and
division of tissues between the two forceps is effected
with the scissors, and by carefully tearing the attach-
ment of the broad ligaments, the end of the gravid
horn is removed from the peritoneal cavity.

The next step in the operation consists in causing
the evacuation of the contents, if any, of the body of
the uterus. This is done by a process of squeezing or
milking out by digital manipulation. This having been
done, two pairs of heavy forceps are securely clamped
upon the body of the uterus with a space of about one
inch intervening, and the body of the uterus is divided
between the two pairs of forceps, thus permitting the
removal of the bifurcated portion of the uterus which
is held firmly closed by means of forceps. Repeating
the process of rupture of the broad ligament by tear-
ing or blunt dissection, progressing in the direction
of the ovary along the horn farthermost from the open-
ing in the abdominal wall, this horn is traced out to
a point beyond the location of the ovary, and two
pairs of forceps are clamped upon the broad ligament
anterior to the location of the ovary, and the removal
of the horn, oviduct and ovary is effected as has been
previously described.

The amputated ends of the broad ligaments are
ligated by means of a gut suture proximal to the posi-
tion of the forceps, and they are then removed. The
end of the stump of the uterus is lifted, by means of
the forceps attached thereto, as nearly as possible to
the surface of the abdominal wound, and its mucous
lining is painted with tincture of iodin. The stump of
138 ANIMAL CASTRATION

the uterus is then ligated by means of a heavy gut or
silk thread which is retained in situ by being fixed at
several points with a needle and securely tied. This
having been done, the forceps attached to the uterus
are removed, and the abdominal wound is ready to be
sutured.

The peritoneum and muscular layers of the abdom-
inal wall are approximated by means of a continuous
suture using gut or silk thread. The skin is united
by means of a heavy silk or linen suture material,
using a continuous suture, and the parts are painted
with tincture of iodin and immediately coated with a
layer of pine tar.

Indications for the performance of hysterotomy are
in cases where only one uterine horn is gravid, or, if
both horns are gravid, where living fetuses are con-
tained in them, and there exists no apparent structural
change involving the body of the uterus and cornua
—in cases where labor has not existed for more than
24 hours and where the mucous membrane of the geni-
talia has not been seriously injured by means of instru-
ments in attempting delivery.

If both uterine horns are gravid, the one nearest the
abdominal opening should be brought to the surface
and laid upon towels which line the wound margins
and cover the surface of the body of the subject. An
incision is then made through the body of the horn
at a point rather near its dorsum. If there are several]
fetuses contained within this uterine horn, an incision
is made over the body of the fetus lying nearest the
uterus. The incision should be made parallel with the
long axis of the uterine horn and of sufficient length to
permit the easy removal of the fetus.

After having removed the fetus, taking care not to
CESAREAN SECTION IN THE SOW 139

permit the escape of fluids which would contaminate the
abdominal wound or possibly the peritoneum, the re-
maining fetuses are removed by way of the same in-
cision. This is accomplished by digital manipulation
of the horn,—an assistant is of much help at this stage
of the operation,—and after having evacuated the con-
tents of this horn, the other one is brought to the sur-
face. If possible its contents are crowded out and by
gentle manipulation the fetuses are extracted by way
of the incision first made.

If attachment of the placental membranes preveits
the transferring of the contents of the second horn
across and by way of the body of the uterus through
the first horn and out through the incision made
therein, it is necessary to make a second opening for
the purpose of removing the fetuses directly out of
the horn in which they are contained.

After having removed all fetuses, any portions of
fetal membranes are carefully removed, and by means
of dressing forceps and cotton the interior of the
uterine horns and the body of the uterus are carefully
swabbed, removing, if possible, all of the contents.
This having been accomplished, the two incisions made
into the horns of the uterus are closed, using for this
purpose chromic gut and uniting the wound margins
with a Lembert suture.

After having mopped the wound margins with
pledgets of cotton taken from the working solution,
the uterus and horns are returned into the peritoneal
cavity, and the wound margin is likewise cleansed of
any possible contaminating materials and sutured as
just described in hysterectomy.

After-Care.—In some cases there is marked evidence
of shock following a cesarean operation, and a hypo-
140 ANIMAL CASTRATION

dermic injection of 1-100 to 1-50 grain of atropin sul-
phate is beneficial. Animals should be placed in com-
fortable quarters and unmolested for a few hours until
they have had time to recover from all shock incident
to the operation. They should be given water ad
libitum and offered a gruel of oil meal, shorts and
water or other suitable nutritive and laxative food.
No special after-care is necessary except to give the
subjects every attention to make them as nearly com-
fortable as possible.

If pigs are delivered in a condition to survive, they
are best taken away from the sow for six or eight
hours, after which time they may be returned, and if
the case progresses favorably, she can nurse them al-
most as well as though normal delivery had taken
place.
INDEX

Abdominal cryptorchidy.. 36
Accidents from

Testraint: o.6cccnecdeu 21, 48
After-care of bulls ....... 66
After-care of calves ..... 64
After-care of colts ...... 32
After-care in caponizing.. 88
After-care of cats ....... 85
After-care of cat in

SPAYVUNS” chvwe me agoiey bres 122
After-care of eryptorehids 4
After-eare of dogs ....... 85
After-care of dog

ID, SPAVINE esas avvieres 113
After-care of heifers .... 99
After-care of inguinal

eryptorchids ........... 47
After-care of mares ...... 94
After-care of sheep ...... 73
After-care of stallion .... 34
After-care of swine ...... 76
Age for calves .......... 11
Age for castrating ...... 11
Age: LOT Cats cose sais srerineis 12
Age for Colts ...ccesaeces 11
Age for cryptorchid

Castration «sasaxeismees 37
Age. for dogs! si3 osaaveves 12
Age for heifers .......... 12
Age for sheep ........... 12
Age for swine ........... 12
Anesthesia secon dunes ness 17
Anesthesia in castrating

eryptorehids: 6 ca wesaw eeu 40

Anesthesia in castration of

mares 0
Anesthesia of cat ....83, 120
Anesthesia of cow 95
Anesthesia of dog ....83, 105
Anesthesia of sow
Anesthesia of stallion ... 33

 

Anesthesia of swine ..... 80
Atrophies following

BOBUPAIIG case snsetacies nvenciins 49
Birds, castration of...... 87
Bos, castration of........ 59
Bulls, after-care of ...... 66
Bulls, castration of....... 64
Bulls, castration sequele

OL * nate wie gale gals ae kestalee 68
Bulls, contamination by

HICSS car poauieassien teoncaneadueie val
Bulls, eryptorchid ....... 66
Bulls, infection of wounds

DIL. ccaiiansin ntecspariisinats aks Salad 70
Bulls, internal hemorrhage

OLS sire sate heave seem crnaind woaat 69
Bulls, restraint of........ 64
Bulls, scrotum of......... 59
Calves, after-care of...... 64
Calves, age for........... Aa
Calves, castration of...... 62
Caponizing .............. 87
Caponizing, after-care in.. 88
Care in restraint......... 20
Cats, after-care of........ 85
Cat, after-care of in spay-

DINE ce, sects siactineees sgishasitiito este cid 22
Cats, AGO LOR. gasses ute deagens 12
Cat, anesthesia of..... 83, 120
Cats, castration of........ 83

Cat, castration of female.119
Cat, constipation following

spaying of ............ 123
Cats, eryptorchidy in..... 85
Cat, shock following spay-

ATE OE arcsnscaneciansvanbanyane. ayers 123

Cesarean section in sow...133
Charlier’s method in cows. 95
142

Charlier’s method in mares 89

CLADTPS: ince ea vevicncggieoames wars 25
Cold affecting subject.... 13
Colic from castration..... 51
Colts, after-care of....... 32
Colts; age fore. cas sessed ll
Colt; normal. ..222.5 ea22 ea. 29

Conformation, effect upon. 10
Constipation following

spaying of cat......... 123
Covered operation...... 28, 48
Covered operation, modifi-

CatloncOf cede cares ear 31
Cow, anesthesia of........ 95

Cows, Charlier’s method in 95
Cow, vaginal ovariotomy of 95
Cryptorchids, after-care of 45

Cryptorchids, anatomy of. 37
Cryptorchids, anesthesia in

Castrading a iene sain tenes 40
Cryptorchid bulls ........ 66
Cryptorchid castration, age

LOM sxaw eas tas Se SS. amas 37
Cryptorchid horses, castra-

LOM, Ole ait cane oped st Rus! 35
Cryptorchids, inguinal .... 46
Cryptorchids, laparotomy

for castrating ......... 44
Cryptorchids, preparation

Of ea ty cain evi ses ea eenen 39
Cryptorchid restraint..... 39
Cryptorchids, surgical tech-

nic for eastrating. cate de He

Cryptorchidy, abdominal. 36
Cryptorchidy of bull, inter-

SUILIAL, swe e aye ede ces 68
Cryptorchidy in cats...... 85
Cryptorchidy in dogs..... 85
Dogs, after-care of........ 85
Dogs, after-care in spay-

IND ya5 be ee ead aka ees 113

Dogs, age for castrating.. 12

Dogs, anesthesia of....83, 105
Dogs, castration of....... 83
Dogs, eryptorchidy in..... 85
Dogs, eventration in...... 117
Dogs, hemorrhage in...... 115
Dogs, hernia in .......... 116
Dogs, postoperative infec-

HOM TMi views Gaon ene-tnnn 115
Dogs, recurrence of estrum

DM sehehie dey So weac ans, NR Reeders 117

 

INDEX

Dogs, sequele of spaying

DT ac aee syeiseanesagueneera Acsaent 4
Dogs, spaying of......... 103
Eeraseur .....-.---20005- 25

Effect of rain on subject.. 13
Effect of filth on subject.. 13
Emasculator
Equine umbilical hernia. ..125
Estrum in dog, recurrence
OF sedccdicroade at eaues 117
Eventration in dog....... 117

Filth affecting subject.... 13
Fistula, scrotal........... 53
Flesh, character of modified 10
Fractures from restraint.. 48

Heifers, after-care of..... 99
Heifers, age for castrating 12
Heifers, castration of..... 97
Heifers, restraint of...... 97
Hemorrhage ............. 49
Hemorrhage of bulls, in-
bermal 4 hasan ant pac aneets 69
Hemorrhage cf dogs...... 115
Hemorrhage of stallion... 35
Hemorrhage, primary .... 49
Hemorrhage, secondary .. 50

Hemorrhage, treatment of. 50
ROTM EE: avis. ser sew ae iat ae 47, 52
Hernia, equine umbilical. .125
Hernia in dog............ 116
Hernia of swine, extra-vag-

Mal canes es odode ees oes 79
Hernia of swine, intra-vag-

ELL aS etayis db attrenter otha oeeeclgens {
High flankers ............ 46
ISUOPY, 4 cs sisae Daan cinne aed 9
Horse, castration of...... 29
Hydroeele ..........0.... 56

Hydrocele, prevention of.. 31
Hydrocele, treatment of... 57

Infection in dog, postoper-

ATIVE. ss vicenacied eon ime aes 115
Infection of wounds in
bulls: scssuseins das oaca's 70

Inguinal eryptorchids..... 46
Inguinal eryptorchids,
after-care of........... 47
INDEX

Instruments ............. 15

Instruments, care of...... 16

Interstitial cryptorchidy of
TOAD, tact spanceeNaokedoe Sect 68

Laparotomy for castrating
eryptorchids

cee dmwaelsine 44

TAGATUTES: nee hei ented 25
Mares, after-care of...... 94
Mares, anesthesia in

castration: Of + wy c6 cae ey 90
Mares, castration of...... 89
Mares, Charlier’s method

DM, seat Sitie Ged gh eet 89
Mares, preparation of.... 90
Mares, restraint of....... 90
Mares, technic of operation

UM: ie dear ie csieraviniaiahe vanes tre 91
Milk, effect upon......... 10

Normal colt, castration of. 29

OWES? & oieidataieadad casauiowand 9
Ovariotomy of cow........ 95
Peritonitis: g.seocayews ver 54
Preoperative preparation

of stallions ccosiesvas ess 33
Preoperative preparation

of subject.............. 13

Preparation of eryptorchid
subject 39
Preparation of mares..... 91
Preparation of surgical
area

Reasons for pies woe 9.

Restraint. .....+.... , 18, 20
Restraint, accidents
FROMM: - iva strates in eee sis 21, 48
Restraint, atrophies follow-
1G < .estoces wees sie’: 49
Restraint, care in......... 21

Restraint, fractures from.. 48

Restraint of eryptorchids. 39
Restraint of heifers....... 97
Restraint of mares........ 90
Restraint of stallions..... 33

Restraint of swine........ 75

 

148
Scirrhus cord ............ 54
Scirrhus cord in swine.... 77

Scirrhus cord, treatment of 55

Scrotal. fistula ici deca 53
Scrotal hernia.......... 47, 79
Scrotum, anatomy of...... 23
Scrotum of bull.......... 59
Scrotum, swelling of...... 52
Season for castrating..... 12
ICCC TCO a. sicccanin caine enlaces; acne 48
Sequele of castration in

Uldis! «esse aoe gins aa 68

Sequele of castration in
SHEED) inctivascivaneanmancte conus 74
Sequele of castration in

SWING jcstents orevaens® 77
Sequele of spaying in

OOS sortisis aroun ant Greener avers 114
Sheep, after-care of....... 3
Sheep, age for castrating.. 12
Sheep, castration of...... 73
Sheep, sequele of castra-

HON; Tigra mig saa emades 74
SHOCK. tiscuoncienutaeainSuatens 51
Shock following spaying of

CONE sensed x Racaen eceienisth anual 12
Solution basins........... 17
Sow, anesthesia of........ 134
Sows, castration of....... 101
Spaying of female cat....119
Spaying of cow ......... 95

Spaying of female dog....103

Spaying of heifers ....... 97
Spaying of mare ......... 89
Spaying of sows ......... 101

Spermatic cord, anatomy of 23

Stallion, after-care of..... 34
Stallion, anesthesia for.... 33
Stallion, castration of.... 32
Stallion, hemorrhage in.... 35
Stallion, preparation of... 33
Stallion, restraint of...... 33
Standing castration....... 18

Surgical area, preparation

OL: ao aeidare ia OAS 14
Surgical technic for castra-

ting eryptorchids....... 41
Swelling of scrotum...... 52
Swine, after-care of...... 76
Swine, age for castrating. 12
Swine, anesthesia of...... 80
Swine, castration of...... 75
144
Swine, extra-vaginal hernia

OL Gisoniseyameciateadietats 79
Swine, intra-vaginal hernia

Of - srs glids cc ae's sameness 79
Swine, restraint of....... 75
Swine, scirrhus cord in... 77

Swine, scrotal hernia in... 79
Swine, sequele of castra-
THOM: Dies sang aw senses aw brak oon 17

Technic of operation in
mares

INDEX

Testicle, anatomy of...... 23
Testicles, comparative size

Ol + 3e. iat lane Siscnaer Sansone oe 24
PINOT SUGIN, «5054 0 fc osauielrevey xseuat Vaginas 25

Treatment of hemorrhage. 50
Treatment of hydrocele... 57
Treatment of scirrhus cord 55
Uncovered operation. ...27, 76
Vaginal tunics ........... 23

Young calves, castration of 59
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