Fig. 305.—Inguinal hernia in a young pig.
When a decision has been arrived at the seat of operation must first of all be thoroughly cleansed and disinfected. The animal is cast in a convenient position, and a general anæsthetic is given or a subcutaneous injection of 1 per cent. cocaine solution administered.
The operation comprises:—
First stage. Incision through the skin covering the hernial sac, opposite the orifice of the hernia.
Second stage. Isolation of the hernial sac.
Third stage. Reduction of the hernia and breaking down of any adhesions that may exist.
Fourth stage. Resection of the sac and obliteration of the peritoneal orifice by suture and ligature.
Fifth stage. Suturing of the muscles and skin, and application of a surgical dressing.
In practice, the deep sutures should be of bichromatised catgut or silk, and the skin sutures of catgut ligature or aseptic silk.