They are Cataplasms and Plaisters Anodyn, Emollient, Resolvent, and Suppurative, which are us'd proportionably as in the Phlegmons.
What is a Gangrene, Sphacelus, or Esthiomenus?
The Gangrene and Sphacelus signifie the same thing, nevertheless are commonly distinguish'd; the former being a Mortification begun, and the Sphacelus an entire or perfect Mortification; call'd also Necrosis and Sideratio. An Esthiomenus is a Disposition to Mortification, discover'd by the softness of the Part; and a Gangrene is defin'd to be a Mortification of a Part, occasion'd by the
Interception of the Spirits, and the Privation of the Natural Heat.
What are the causes of a Gangrene in general?
Every thing that can hinder the Natural Heat from exerting it self in a Part; as strong Ligatures, astringent or resolvent Medicines, not conveniently us'd in great Inflammations; a violent Hæmorrhage; or Old Age, whereby the Spirits are exhausted; the bitings of Mad Dogs; excessive Cold, &c.
By what Signs is the Gangrene known?
It is discover'd by the livid Colour of the Skin, which departs from the Flesh, the softness, coldness, and insensibility of the Part; and sometimes by its dryness and blackness, from whence exhales a cadaverous Stench, with Sanies issuing forth after Punctures or Scarifications made therein. Lastly, a Gangrene is perceiv'd by the cold Sweats, Swoonings, Syncope's, and Delirium's that invade the Patient, and which are all the Fore-runners of approaching Death.
Is a Gangrene only found in the Flesh, and soft Parts of the Body?
It happens also in the Bones; and is then call'd Caries.