On examining the state of the parts, Desault discovered, in the transverse wound, two splinters which when extracted, gave vent to an effusion of blood. He reduced, instead of cutting it off, as authors have advised, the end of the separated condyl, applied a bandage of strips,[13] and, to prevent accidents, ordered a strict diet, copious blood-letting, and diluting drinks.
Compresses wet with vegeto-mineral water, kept the apparatus constantly moist.
On the day following, the dressing was renewed superficially; severe pains in the part; abated towards evening; almost gone next day; low diet continued.
Fourth day, pains returned; an incipient swelling around the joint; more blood drawn.
Sixth day, considerably better; all the apparatus renewed; suppuration beginning to appear.
Tenth day, a small abscess on the external condyl opened, and a splinter extracted posteriorly.
Fifteenth day, the parts assume a flattering aspect; suppuration favourable; fragments in contact; from this time the dressings are less frequent.
Twentieth day, a bilious diathesis; edges of the wounds livid; loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; an emetic is administered.
Thirtieth day, unfavourable appearances gone; reunion commencing; wounds visibly healing. Fortieth day, all external injuries healed, except the one situated anteriorly; callus already very firm; gentle motions performed with the limb, which is still surrounded by the apparatus.