Intubation has not as yet fulfilled the expectations of the medical profession. The relief after intubation is not so complete or so immediate as after tracheotomy; the membrane and mucus occlude the tube, and cause coughing and distress. Frequently the tube must be removed, cleansed, and again inserted. Nor has the difficulty of swallowing with the tube in the larynx as yet been overcome. Dr. W. E. Casselberry, of Chicago, two years ago recommended feeding the patient while the head is reclined downwards.
But at this time, I only wish to speak of two simplifications in the method of intubation, which render it one of the easiest of surgical procedures.
I discard both the gag and the extractor. The father or the nurse takes the child on his lap, holding firmly the little hands, as for an ordinary examination of the mouth or the throat. When the child opens