ry, one may divide
with impunity, both tendons on each leg, at the same time. In all cases
this operation is done by observing strict aseptic precautions and the
legs are, of course, bandaged. If both tendons are divided, splints
should be employed and kept in position for ten days or two weeks.
Primary union of the small surgical wound of the skin and fascia occurs
in forty-eight hours.

The reader is referred to William's "Veterinary Surgical and Obstetrical
Operations," for a complete description of this operation.

In veterinary literature there is occasionally described a
condition which affects young foals wherein symptoms similar to
those of contraction of the flexors are manifested, but upon
examination it is found that rupture of the extensor of the digit
(extensor pedis) exists. This affection is briefly described by
Cadiot but no complete treatise on this condition has been
published.

In parts of Canada foals of from one to three days of age are found
affected in such manner that more or less interference with the
gait is to be seen in those moderately affected. There is, in some
subjects, only a slight impediment in locomotion which is
occasioned by inability to properly extend the digit. In other
subjects, while able to stand and walk, great difficulty is
experienced because of volar flexion of the phalanges. The more
seriously affected animals are unable to stand and, in most
instances, perish because of the effects of prolonged decubitus.

A local enlargement occurs at the anterior carpal region and the
mass is somewhat fluctuating, extravasated fluids becoming infected
in many instances, and necrosis of the skin and fascia provide
means for spontaneous discharge of the contents of the enlargement
if it is not opened. The infection when it becomes generalized
causes a fatal termination in most cases that are not treated.

[Illustration: Fig. 25--"Fish knees."--Photo by Thos. Millar,
M.R.C.V.S.]

Native stock owners of some parts of Canada know this condition as
"fish knees" because of the presence of the ruptured end of the
extensor tendon which is found coiled in the cavity of the
enlargements caused by the ruptured tendon.

Local practitioners have treated the condition by incising the
swollen mass and removing the part of tendon contained within such