Case V. Fissure of the Rectum, with Hysteria—Operation for the former—Relief—Subsequent Operation for Hysteria—Cure.
Mrs. L., æt. 55; admitted into the London Surgical Home Dec. 9, 1861.
History.—Is a widow. Has for many years suffered from all the inconveniences of a fissure of the rectum, combined with bad digestion, undue nervous excitability, and sleepless nights. Is very anxious to be cured. It being thought that all these symptoms might be due to a painful fissure of the rectum, the ordinary operation for this affection was performed on December 12. The bowels were opened in a few days without pain, and the fissure was healing well. Being, however, still sleepless, excitable, and irritable, questions were asked which showed that a further operation for removal of another source of irritation was advisable; therefore, on December 24, I performed my usual operation. The next night she slept well. She became quiet and cheerful, and on January 6, 1862, she was discharged quite well.
Remarks.—This case is very interesting, as it shows that there may exist at the same time more than one irritation exerting inhibitory influence.