This operation, though a simple one and productive of the most excellent results, is, I fear, too little appreciated by the general practitioner, and even by surgeons. There is no more satisfactory operation in surgery, nor one that is applicable to such a variety of conditions. It is safe, speedy, easily performed, seldom followed by any unpleasant consequences, and most effective in relief. Although it is one of the most common operations in my hands, I can safely say that I have not, for ten years, had a single drop of pus following its performance. To accomplish this desirable end, however, it is necessary that the surgeon shall be absolutely cleanly, and that he shall not introduce into the wound any elements of suppuration.
The application of the operation is wide; in deformities following fractures; in ankyloses of joints, from whatever cause; in the distortions of bone produced by rickets,