The introduction of saline solution subcutaneously, intravenously or per rectum, to support the circulation in shock and collapse, is markedly efficacious, and if properly given is perhaps the most valuable treatment for these conditions. Intra-abdominal transfusion of salt solutions into the peritoneal cavity, as advocated by Lawson Tait, is of undoubted value to combat shock following abdominal operations, as is also the employment of proctoclysis in the treatment of peritonitis and general toxemic conditions, as suggested by Dr. J. B. Murphy of Chicago.
Aside from the fact that the solution must be aseptic, the temperature of the solution as it enters the tissues is of the utmost importance. With the usual solution-containers—the fountain syringe, glass flask and glass pressure bottle—there is difficulty in maintaining an equable temperature, for they rapidly radiate heat, and usually there is considerable drop in the temperature of the fluid from the start to the