THE TOBACCO-SMOKE ENEMA. WORMS.
As a last resort, should the previous remedies prove of no avail, procure a stick of brimstone; light it and let it fill the place with the sulphurous fumes which are the product of its combustion. However, mind that the air is not too strongly impregnated, though, at the same time, it should be so pungent as to allow a human being to breathe with difficulty. This last measure ought to be continued for two hours, at the end of which period repeat the remedies already recommended, resorting to each by turns; and do not fear being active, for flatulent colic becomes more difficult to remove as the period of its origin grows more distant. Should the affection appear to be approaching a fatal termination, and the size of the belly convince the spectator that the gas has entered the intestines, a desperate remedy remains. The situation where the vapor has accumulated may be ascertained by percussion; gently cut the skin which covers the abdomen on the left side, over those places indicated by white spots in the second engraving. A hollow sound will be emitted when the proper point has been struck; be certain of the last fact, as mistakes made in this operation are very awkward affairs. When assured, take a sharp-pointed knife, and, drawing the skin tight over the place selected, nick the integument slightly; then take a fine trocar and push it through the opening which has been made.
A TROCAR ARMED WITH A CANULA FOR PUNCTURING
THE ABDOMEN.
This being accomplished, withdraw the stilet, and the gas should rush out with violence; be provided with a small probe to clear the canula in case it should become impacted. The gas being released, the abdomen is reduced; withdraw the canula and the skin will fly back, effectually excluding all atmosphere.
THE PLACES WHERE THE ABDOMEN MAY BE
PUNCTURED IN THE LAST
STAGE OF FLATULENT COLIC.
The gas, on rare occasions, will be generated a second time; therefore the points where other punctures may be made are indicated; for it is never well to interfere with those openings which in the first instance were instituted. However, should the operation have to be repeated, pull the integument in the opposite direction, so as not to disturb the original wounds into the abdomen.
Puncturing the abdomen for flatulent colic has been practiced both in this kingdom and in foreign lands; it is by no means a certain success, neither is it a certain failure. It assuredly requires boldness to perform it; but probably it is quite as beneficial and far more speedy in its effects than the great majority of medicinal remedies.