[p. 185] you have replaced the bones,
you must apply the bandages while the parts are upon the stretch,
if you possibly can; but if prevented by the thongs, you must loose
them, and make counter-extension until you get the bandages applied.
The bandage is to be applied in the manner formerly described, the
heads of the bandages being placed on the projecting part, and the
first turns made in like manner, and so also with regard to the number
of compresses and the compression; and turns of the bandages are to
be brought frequently round on this and on that side of the ankle.
But this joint must be bound more tight at the first dressing than
in the case of the hand. But when you have applied the bandage, you
must place the bandaged part somewhat higher than the rest of the
body, and in such a position that the foot may hang as little as possible.
The attenuation of the body is to be made proportionate to the magnitude
of the luxation, for one luxation is to be a small, and another to
a great extent. But in general we must reduce more, and for a longer
time, in injuries about the legs, than in those about the hands; for
the former parts are larger and thicker than the latter, and it is
necessary that the body should be kept in a state of rest, and in
a recumbent position. There is nothing to prevent or require the limb
to be bandaged anew on the third day. And all the treatment otherwise
is to be conducted in like manner, as in the preceding cases. And
if the patient have resolution to lie quiet, forty days will be sufficient
for this purpose, if only the bones be properly reduced, but if he
will not lie quiet, he will not be able to use the limb with ease,
and he will find it necessary to wear a bandage for a long time. When
the bones are not properly replaced, but there has been some defect
in this respect, the hip, the thigh, and the leg become wasted, and
if the dislocation be inward, the external part of the thigh is wasted,
and vice versa. But for the most part the dislocation is inward.
Part 15
And when both bones of the leg are broken without a wound of the skin,
stronger extension is required. We may make extension by some of the
methods formerly described, provided the bones ride over one another
to a considerable degree. But extension by men is also sufficient,
and for the most part two
|
