Part 29
Those cases in which the exfoliation of a larger piece of bone is
expected, whether you discover this at the commencement, or perceive
subsequently that it is to happen, no longer require the same mode
of treatment, only that the extension and arrangement of the parts
are to be performed in a manner that has been described; but having
formed double compresses, not less than half a fathom in breadth (being
guided in this by the nature of the wound), and considerably shorter
than what would be required to go twice round the part that is wounded,
but considerably longer than to go once round, and in number what
will be sufficient, these are to be dipped in a black austere wine;
and beginning at the middle, as is done in applying the double-headed
bandage, you are to wrap the part around and proceed crossing the
heads in the form of the bandage called "ascia." These things are
to be done at the wound, and on both sides of it; and there must be
no compression, but they are to be laid on so as to give support to
the wound. And on the wound itself is to be applied the pitched cerate,
or one of the applications
[p. 197] to recent wounds, or any other medicine
which will suit with the embrocation. And if it be the summer season,
the compresses are to be frequently damped with wine; but if the winter
season, plenty of greasy wool, moistened with wine and oil, should
be applied. And a goat's skin should be spread below, so as to carry
off the fluids which run from the wound; these must be guarded against,
and it should be kept in mind, that parts which remain long in the
same position are subject to excoriations which are difficult to cure.
