April 30. Progressing most favourably. Patient expresses great gratitude for the relief she has obtained. She left the Home a month later, looking and feeling quite well; the last note in the case-book being “a very grateful patient.”
Case XXVII. Epileptiform Fits—Six Years’ Duration—Operation—Cure.
F. W., æt. 33, single; admitted into the London Surgical Home May 23, 1864.
History.—Has suffered from fits for more than six years, much more frequently the last six months; having now as many as four or five during the day—always one or two. The fits vary in length from one to three hours’ duration. Is conscious during the attacks, but unable to speak, or in any way to control them. Is invariably worse during the menstrual periods. Suffers from palpitation of the heart.
Examination showed a highly inflamed and sensitive condition of the external generative organs; the patient herself confirmed my opinion of the cause of her attacks.
May 28. Clitoris excised—free hæmorrhage allowed before the dressings were applied.
June 12. Left her bed to-day; has had no fit since the operation, and says she feels well.
June 20. Takes daily exercise, is free from pain, the wound is healed, and her health daily improving. Action of the heart much more moderate.
July 19. Discharged cured, not having had one hysterical attack since the operation.