from 31 to 3i two or three times daily. The cubebs he gives in doses of Dito 3ii, from one to four times daily.

For the details of the management of the varieties and phases of the disease we must refer to the work of Ricord. The instructions are given with remarkable conciseness, so that it is impossible to do justice by an analysis without quoting the greater part of this portion of the treatise. His general views with regard to injections are specially important. Many practitioners of late years have abandoned their use almost entirely, from an impression that they are liable to induce stricture. attributes this result rarely, if ever, to the effect of injections, but to the duration of the complaint. Hence to prevent organic changes, he endeavors, by this mode, to cure the disease as rapidly as possible. He considers the apprehension of danger from repercussion utterly groundless.

Ricord

During the continuance of the disease, and for some time afterwards, he recommends abstinence from the warm bath, as he has observed this to increase and even recal the discharge. We have had occasion to observe this fact.

Cases of Gonorrhea, as almost every practitioner is able to testify, wi!l occasionally be found to resist every method of treatment by medicaments, and locally, by various injections. In these cases it is to be presumed there is some permanent difficulty in some portion of the urethra, and this canal is to be carefully explored to determine its location and character. This exploration will probably discover either increased sensibility at some portion, or stricture. If the former, Ricord adopts the practice recommended by Lallemand, of applying the solid nitrate of silver. Of the treatment of stricture, we must refer the reader to this and other authors on the subject. We shall also omit an account of the pathology and treatment, of swelled testicle, or, as Ricord terms it, gonorrheal epididymitis, except to notice that when this complication exists, it does not prevent him from treating the urethral discharge by injections, &c.; and, also, a method which appears to be original with himself, viz: compression. He says that by means of compression he obtains the cure of sympathetic epididymitis in five or six days, prevents the development of hydrocele, and permits patients to follow their occupation without any ill effects. This practice is new to us. We give his description of its application in order that our readers may be induced to try it, as, of course, they will be ready to do on the authority of Ricord:

"Compression is applied by means of bandages of emplast. c. hydrarg. about half an inch in width. The diseased testicle being carefully held, so as not to occasion too much pain, is to be turned toward the lower part of the scrotum, without distending the cord, at the same time separating it from that on the other side. The strips should then be applied in circles, beginning by placing the first on the insertion of the cord, and sufficiently firm to prevent the organ from slipping. This being done, the circles should be continued around the testicle, so as to produce a consi· derable, but uniform pressure, avoiding as much as possible making any folds in the skin. Beyond this point, separate straps should be applied, so as to exercise a pressure from above below, and thus forming a kind of basket." He adds, "if this dressing is to succeed, the sufferings of the patient will diminish from the moment of its being applied, and, at length, entirely cease. If this be not the case, it must immediately be removed.”

Other collateral subjects connected with Gonorrhoea, such as gonorrhœal ophthalmia, phymosis, paraphymosis, &c., we must also pass by.We have endeavored to give a succinct account of the prominent and peculiar views of Ricord, as developed in the two works placed at the head of this article, in so far as they relate to the subject of gonorrhœa in general. In our next number we purpose to resume the analysis, presenting, in the same manner, his opinions on the subject of Syphilis.

EDITORIAL, MEDICAL INTELLIGENCE, &c.

Medical Reform-National Convention. -We have taken occasion in each of our preceding numbers to offer a few desultory remarks on the subject of medical reform. Since all must agree that the existing state of the profession loudly calls for reform, the subject is not only a legitimate one for the Medical Journalist, but one, the importance of which claims for it especial attention. If, however, any apology were required for so constantly referring to it, we might adduce the fact, that, at the present time, the subject is one of peculiar interest, in consequence of an approaching convention of delegates from the different Schools and Associations throughout the Union, to take into consideration means for improving medical education, and elevating the character of the profession.As regards the meeting of the Convention, we are glad to see in the January number of the New York Journal of Medicine, an assurance from Dr. Davis, (on whose motion the plan was adopted by the New York State Society) that it is now no longer a matter of question that it will be held, and numerously attended. We shall continue, therefore, to throw out such ideas as occur to us, with a view to excite attention toward the subject, and to suggest trains of reflection in the minds of our readers. Our pages, also, are open to free discussions of the various questions which the subject embraces, by any of our correspondents who choose to engage in it. We have no particular plan to advocate, or objects to secure.We go for reform; and we care not what particular method be pursued, so that it be judicious, and calculated to produce the desired result. are willing to leave the ways and means to the deliberative wisdom of a body of men composed of the most sagacious, prudent, and high-minded members of the profession, from the different parts of the Union: Of such men, it is to be hoped, the Convention will be composed.

We

A want of interest in the subject by the profession generally, an apathy often founded on the too hasty belief that nothing can be done to remedy existing evils, is a serious obstacle in the way of reform. We have more

fear from this, than from any other source of failure in the proposed method of concerted action. We fear that the profession will not be so fully represented as it ought to be, or that proper care and discrimination will not, in all cases, be exercised in the selection of delegates. The consequence will be, that some interests being, or appearing to be represented more than others, the measures determined on will labor under the imputation of being partial, or partizan in their character. We wish the appeal could be made to every local medical association throughout our country, to make this the subject of formal, deliberative consideration,

and not to fail to unite in an object which embraces the general, permanent welfare of the profession. We look upon the present movement as a highly critical one, believing, as we do, that any system to elevate the character of the whole profession, and to establish uniformity in medical education and requirements, must emanate from a national, medical congress, composed of members from every part of our country, representing fairly and fully all interests; and also, believing that if this attempt prove unsuccessful, a long period must elapse before another effort will be made. Another source of danger is the diversity of opinions respecting the best means of effecting a reform. There is, unfortunately, a great want of unanimity in this respect in the profession. On all subjects there will be honest differences of sentiment, and, more especially on matters involving untried experience, this will necessarily be the case. We trust that different views may be so reconciled and harmonized, that the profession will cheerfully co-operate in whatever plan is adopted. If the character of the Convention should be such as to commend itself to the respect and confidence of the profession, our duty is plainly to accept its conclusions, and submit them to a candid trial. Above all, let not individuals be ready to attribute to those who advocate measures which they do not approve, selfish or unworthy motives. If such feelings be allowed to have much scope, the prospect of an hearty union and co-operation for a common purpose is at an end.

It is to be confessed that the subject of reform, is, in itself, of a complex and difficult character. It is not easy for one who endeavors to examine it with careful attention, and a mind free from any particular bias, to decide what is the best course to pursue. This consideration, while it should enforce the necessity of deliberation and prudence in forming opinions, should, also, suggest the propriety of entertaining due distrust of their correctness; and, at least, of exercising candor and liberality toward those which conflict with them.

When we commenced penning this article we designed to indulge in some reflections on the particular points which seem to us to claim especial attention in deliberating upon the means of reform. The views which we intended merely as introductory, have, however, extended themselves so far as to occupy all the space we can devote to the subject in the pre

sent number.

Erie County Medical Society.-The annual meeting of this Society was held on the 13th ult., at the Lecture Room of the Young Mens' Association. The report of the Committee appointed at the semi-annual meeting to take into consideration the subject of medical legislation and reform, and report thereupon for the action of the Society, in conformity with the request of the State Society, occasioned considerable discussion. The majority of the Committee reported two resolutions-one recommending that no, application be made to the Legislature for new laws or for the alteration of existing laws, but if it be deemed expedient to make any application, it should be to abolish all laws regulating the practice of physic and surgery. A minority of the Committee were in favor of changing the present mode of conferring licenses and diplomas, depriving Medical Colleges and County Societies of this privilege, and confining it to a single, central board of examiners, or to a board for every senatorial district. The Society sustained the resolution reported by the majority of the Committee. The Committee, also, reported a resolution approving of the plan of a National Convention, which was adopted by the Society.

The annual address was delivered by Dr. John S. Trowbridge. The subject was Puerperal Convulsions. It was a creditable performance. The Doctor impressed he importance of being prepared for this truly terrible complication of the puerperal

state by sound views of its pathology, and correct principles of treatment. Fortunately the disease is rare, but every practitioner is daily liable to meet with it, under circumstances which will be most trying to his feelings, and which will call for the immediate application of all his knowledge, and his best judgment. The distinctions between it and Epilepsy, and Hysteria, were pointed out. Dr. S. regards it as a peculiar affection of the nervous system, with a tendency to conditions of the nervous centre analogous to those which obtain in Apoplexy. The importance of recognizing premonitory indications of its development, and prompt resort to an active depletory treatment in all cases where the diagnosis is certain, or even doubtful, was duly considered.

The address of the President, Dr. Wakeley, on retiring from office, was postponed 'until the next semi-annual meeting.

Dr. Wilcox, of this city, was appointed to deliver the address at the next meeting of the Society.

The following are the officers elected for the present year:

President, F. L. Harris, M. D.: Vice President, Isaac Parsells, M. D.; Secretary, Charles Winne, M. D.; Treasurer, H. N. Loomis, M. D.; Librarian, Josiah Trowbridge, M. D.; Censors, Drs. Scott, Pride, G. N. Burwell, J. S. Trowbridge, and Mixer.

Cyanosis of new-born Infants.-Prof. Meigs, of Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, being in Paris at the sitting of the Academy of Sciences in June last, presented to that body a communication on the above subject. The following is the substance of the paper as reported in the Dublin Medical Press, and quoted in the Bulletin of Medical Science for September:

The remedy which Professor M. advises, the efficacy of which seems to be substantiated by an extensive experience in his hands, is exceedingly simple, and plausible. It should be borne in mind by every practitioner. He is of opinion that death from this affection results "from the presence of dark, non-oxygenated blood in the brain, where its presence is hurtful, not because it acts as a poison, but simply because it is incapable of exciting the motions of innervation in that organ. It is useless to insist on the universally known fact that the persistence of the foramen ovale is the cause of cyanosis. As the occlusion of the foramen ovale is prevented by the torrent of blood flowing from the inferior vena cava, raising and keeping raised the inter-auricular valve, which is thin and floating, it occurred to Dr. Meigs to place the cyanosed child on the right side, with the head and trunk somewhat raised, so that the inter-auricular septum should be maintained horizontal, and the blood contained in the left auricle should press with its whole weight on the closed valve. Dr. Meigs has frequently seen the blue color disappear at the very instant the infant was placed in this position, proving that oxygenated blood only entered the arteries.

Dr. Meigs stated that he had thus saved lives of fifty or sixty children in one hundred: whereas, as is well known, all the means hitherto tried have failed."

Works of Hippocrates and Gulen.—Dr. John Redman Coxe, of Philadelphia, for merly Professor of Chemistry in the University of Pennsylvania, and distinguished especially for his medical antiquarian lore, proposes to publish a translated epitome of the above works if 500 subscribers can be obtained. It will consist of two or three volumes of from 500 to 600 pages each, at a price not exceeding $3 00 a volume. Physicians wishing to subscribe can forward their names to Lindsay & Blakiston, Philadelphia.

Contemplated Work on the physical condition and diseases of the region between the Gulf of Mexico and the Northern Lakes, by Daniel Drake, M. D., of the Medical Institute of Louisville. The project of a work on the above subject was announced to the profession by Dr. Drake some years since. By the December number of the Western Journal we learn that he is now engaged in its composition, and that he looks forward to its completion at no distant day. The Doctor solicits facts bearing on the subject. We quote from his circular as follows: "Post mortem examinations, remarkable cases, and histories of epidemics of all kinds will be acceptable; in short, any well observed, and well recorded fact going to illustrate the causes, symptoms, or treatment of any of our diseases, will be gratefully received. As the morbid appearances in those who have died of our autumnal fevers have been but imperfectly set forth, he is extremely desirous of receiving cases of dissection of that kind. He is likewise anxious

to obtain accounts of the typhoid fever, and the erysipelatous fever, which, for the last few years, have prevailed in various parts of the West and South."

He asks, also, for meteorological observations, to come down to the end of the year 1845; and would like to receive accurate notice of the times in the ensuing spring when the following plants unfold their leaves: peach tree, white flowering locust, dogwood, and cotton wood. "In every case a number of trees should be observed, and the aspect of the spot, in reference to the sun, recorded."

Medical University!-Truly the wonders of steam in this enlightened age exceed all that could, by any effort of the imagination, have been anticipated! The Legislature of the State of Alabama have incorporated a Medical University! With our old fashioned notions we had supposed that this conjunction of terms involved a solecism, but we had forgotten the expansive powers of steam. The, so styled, Medical University, is a steam institution of the "purely Thomsonian order." The teachers say, that "an epoch in the history of Alabama will bare on the first Monday in Nov. 1845❞— the lectures commencing at that time. The epoch is now passed some three months. It is time to "clear the track," and "look out for the engine!" There is something interesting in seeing a superb Humbug flourish. Success to the Steam Medical University of Alabama ! Vive la Bagatelle!

Extraction of a broken Needle from the Hand--by Estes Howe, M. D. From the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal.-There are few things more embarrassing, in ordinary practice, than being called upon for advice, in a case where a needle has been thrust into the flesh, and is supposed to be still present. Very often the evidence of its presence is so equivocal, that one feels very doubtful as to the expediency of an exploration with the scalpel, even at the request of the patient, and still more so as to advi sing or urging the use of the knife. Yet where a needle is really present, in the hand or foot, or near an articulation, the importance of immediate extraction will not be denied. And where there is no reasonable doubt of the presence of a needle, its exact position, and the direction of its axis, are extremely difficult to determine. We are not at liberty to explore, by incisions in every direction, as we might on the subject, but must content ourselves, at most, with a moderate crucial incision. and it is too often the case that after a search for some minutes, unsuccessfully, our conviction of the existence of the object of our search, "oozes out at the end of our fingers," like Bob Acre's couragethe patient "is sure it's not there," or "it feels better and may work out,"-while our back aches, our eyes are dim with looking, our fingers are tired of poking, and we give it up, in a woful uncertainty as to the case, but quite sure that the patient has an ugly wound to no purpose. To be assured, therefore, of the presence of a needle, and within very small limits, of its exact seat, and the direction of its axis, is no small thing in such cases. Feeling confidence in our diagnosis, we may boldly continue our explorations to complete success-being always able to assure our patient, beyond a doubt, that we shall ultimately succeed.

CASE.-Mrs. F, while washing, thrust into the palmar surface of the right hand, about an inch and a half anterior to the pisiform bone, something sharp-probably a needle. Upon examination of the dress she was washing, the half of a needle was found, and the question was, whether the other half was, or was not, buried in the flesh. On examining the place, a small puncture was perceived, from which, I was told, no blood had issued, when I saw the patient an hour after the accident. I probed the puncture with the blunt end of a needle, pretty deeply, but could feel nothing, and pon pressure in various directions could not arrive at any unequivocal evidence of the presence of the broken portion of needle. The patient was very reluctant to submit to the scalpel, and I did not feel sufficiently sure to urge her to submit to it, while I was equally unwilling to have her run the risk of losing the usefulness of her right hand (upon which she and four children depended for bread,) by suffering the needle to remain, if it were really there. At this moment, the experiment of Mr. Alfred Smee, described in an article in the "Medical Times," of London, occurred to me, and I resorted to it with perfect satisfaction. His plan is to ascertain the existence and position of the needle, by rendering it a magnet. This may very readily be done, by subjecting it for a certain length of time to the action of a moderately powerful mag. net. I procured, from a friend, a pretty powerful magnet-a steel bar about a foot long and a half inch square-well charged. This I bound upon the arm, placing one pole directly over the seat of the injury. Two hours after, I removed it, and upon