ris, and similar operations, are absolutely contraindicated when there is no local disease, the intelligent physician will know how to produce the same moral effect in other ways." He very justly remarks, we should endeavor to cultivate the study of pathological anatomy, of aetiology and diagnosis, as completely as possible, and not limit the progress of gynecology to the surgical field. Professor Winckel recommends, in teaching gynecology, the use of a phantom, prepared in the following manner (knowing from practical experience the value of the method advised, I present it in his words, and with his illustrations): "The female genitals, after having been thoroughly disenfected by having them placed for some weeks in the following solution-corrosive sublimate 1 part, glycerin 250 parts, and water 1000 parts—are removed entire, and placed in Schultze's phantom in a position corresponding as closely as possible with their normal one. Prepared in the way advised the organs preserve their softness and elasticity. The periphery of the excised vulva is sutured to the rubber at the vulvar opening of the phantom, and the rectum is attached in its normal position; the broad ligaments are fastened by elastic cords to the iliac crests so that they lie in the middle of the innominate line, and the upper portion of the bladder and the round ligaments are also fastened in their appropriate position, the latter being attached to the anterior pelvic wall. When all the organs have been placed in proper position, the different methods of examination as well as all the operations upon the female genitals may be performed with great facility." The translation of Professor Winckel's treatise into English was undertaken at my suggestion by Dr. Williamson, but as he was prevented, chiefly by other engagements, from revising it and preparing it for the press, this duty has been chiefly done by Dr. A. B. Hirsch, to whom I desire to express my great obligations. Further, I am indebted to Dr. Hirsch, also, for assistance in proofreading. The volume is, I believe, a full, faithful and clear translation of the German work, only I have omitted a very extensive bibliography which to most readers is without interest; three or four plates of instruments have also been omitted, while all other illustrations, procured directly from the German publishers, are introduced. The author's orthography of proper names has been followed even to that of Muzeux, which ought to be Museux. Winckel refers to the Sinith-Goodell speculum, but while there is a speculum known as Smith's, and another as Goodell's, there is none properly called by the compound name, and therefore I have taken the liberty of changing the text in this point. Again, a mode of treatment known in this country as "Weir Mitchell's," is spoken of as that of Weil, and I have substituted for this the name of Mitchell. THEOPHILUS PARVIN. |