7* % ii " 1 he editor of the Chronicle will shortly take the liberty of presenting to the public, a fair honourable, and imposing view of the high and command- ing consequence this paper holds as to its extent of both cm and coun- try ovulation. In this respect, it would seem, the public is not apprised of its importance and standing. False reports have been put afloat to suit sinister and interested feelings ; but truth will take a resplendent ground, in opposition to falsehood and dishonour !" BaltitAore Morning Chronicle. Similar reports, with precisely the same intentions, have been put into cir- culation in regard to the Medical Recorder; therefore the Proprietor of that v/ork thinks he cannot adopt a more appropriate motto. THE MEDICAL RECORDER, conducted by >j SAMUEL COLHOUN, M.D. Member of the American Philosophical Society, See. &c. * twisted by an association of Physicians, in Philadelphia, New-York, Baltimore, and Norfolk: The Proprietor of the above Journal, thinks it may not be uninteresting to the medical profession, particularly to those who are unacquainted with the work, to give something of its history. It was commenced in 1818, upon an independent principle, having solely in view the promotion of Medical Science, at the same time giving all possible useful and valuable information to the practitioner of medicine, disregarding the dogmas of any school, or any particular set of men whatever. To main- tain so desirable an object, the proprietor has had great and powerful obstacles and much opposition to contend against, which need not be mentioned here. Suffice it to say, that various means have been used to make the Journal sub- servient to the particular views and interests of several se.ts of men, and, per. haps, none more so than a very late attempt, but as soon as it was discovered, means were promptly taken to prevent the independence of the Journal being impaired, by making a change in the editorial department; that it has been an advantage to the work, is evinced by the rapid increase of subscri- bers ; upwards of two hundred and fifty having been received since the change was made,—the number of subscribers at the present time, is near fourteen hundred, perhaps double the number any similar work ever obtain- ed in the United States. The Proprietor pledges himself that the usual independence of the Journal shall be maintained, and it gives him pleasure to say, that new and more am- ple arrangements have been made to render the work still more valuable and interesting to the Practitioner. Besides a direct correspondence with some of the most eminent Medical men in Europe, by which every thing new in Medicine and Surgery is obtained as early as possible after it is promulgated there; the Medical Recorder contains impartial reviews of the principal Medical Journals published in the United States, thus embracing the most important matter they contain; the nature of which, will be better under- stood, by giving the editor's note on commencing the reviews. " In conformity with our original design, of presenting to the public a view -f the Medical and Surgical Intelligence of Europe and America, we shall A devote hereafter some pages of our Journal to a Review of the periodical works of this country; restricting ourselves, however, to such information as is entirely practical, or so intimately related with the science as to have an important influence upon its most necessary duties; we shall exhibit the progress of improvement in every quarter, and we hope render the Journal a still more valuable depository of useful knowledge." With a view of giving a more general idea of the work, the table of contents of the three last num- bers are given, also several notices of the work taken from respectable Jour nals, speaking of the merits of the Medical Recorder. The work is printed on fine paper, each number containing from 200 to 255 closely printed pages, and got up in a superior manner. Terms five dollars per annum, payable within the year of subscribing. No subscriptions discontinued until all arrearages are paid. Those gentlemen who may wish to have the work, will please to make thei^ wish known (by mail, post paid) to " James Webster, the publisher, No. 24, South Eighth street, Philadelphia," and the numbers shall be sent immediately. Subscriptions must commence with No. 25, for January last, or with No. 29, which will be next January. CONTENTS OF NO. XXV. A few observations upon the nature of Fractures of the Long Bones in general, and upon the Nature and Treatment of simple Fractures of the Hu- merus in particular ; accompanied with a description of a new Apparatus, il- lustrated by cases, &c. By Joseph Amesbury, Esq. On Rupture of the Uterus. By Edwin A. Atlee, M.D. of Philadelphia. Case of the efficacy of Seton in Artificial Joint, after a fracture of the fore-arm. By John Baxter, M.D. of New-York. A Bean extracted by the operation of Bronchotomy. By Joseph Palmer, M.D. A case of Intestinal Polypus. Communicated by Dr. Robert Archer, of Norfolk, Va. On the use of Diaphoretics. By George R Pitts, of Westmoreland, Va. A case of extraction of a pebble from the Trachea, by the operation of Bronchotomy successfully performed. By Horatio G. Jame- son, M.D. of Baltimore. Three cases of Bronchotomy. By Dr. S. Annan, of Emmetsburg. A second case of Bronchotomy. Reported by H. G. Jameson, M.D. A case of Femoral Aneurism, cured without the operation. By W. Beach, M.D. of New-York. An Essay on the Autumnal Bilious Epidemic of the United States. Read before the Medical Society of the District of Colum- bia, in April 1823. By Dr. Nathaniel P. Causin, of Washington, D.C. Obser- vations on the Modifications and" Treatment of Marasmus. By a Physician to a Public Dispensary. REVIEWS. Dublin Hospital Reports and Communications, &c. Vol. III. On the appli- cation of Leeches to Internal Surfaces. By Philip Crampton, M.D. F.R.S. Case of a large Coagulum of Blood and Urine extracted from the Bladder by a Syringe. By L. Byron, M.D. Case of Obstructed ffisophagus, &c. by John Howship, M.D. On a Paralytic Affection of the Superior Extremity. By Kobert Healy, M.B. A case of Perforation of the Perineum. By J. C. Doug- lass, M.D. Cases of Jaundice, with Dissections. By Henry Marsh, A.B. M.D A case of Diseased Heart, with Observations. By Thos. Cuming, M.D. A case of Fatal Hemorrhage, six weeks after Ligature of the Carotid Artery. By J. W. Cusack, M.D. A case of Traumatic Tetanus, successfully treated by Tobacco, with Observations. By James O'Beirne, M.D. &c. An Account of two Cases in which Bronchotomy was performed. By R. Burgess, M.D. Case of Strangulated Hernia, occasioned by a double Stricture in the Sac, of an hour-glass shape. By Richard Carmichael, M.R. J.A. A case of Disloc* 3 hon of the Hip-Jomt, with the manner of its Reduction, and tne appearances on Dissection. By James Scott, M.D. An Account of a Dissection of the Hip-Jomt after recent Luxation. By Charles H. Todd, Esq. On Diseases of the Lachrymal Gland. By Charles H. Todd, Esq. Observations on the Treat- ment ot Diabetes Melhtus. By Henry Marsh, A.B. M.D. A Treatise on the Diseases of the Eye. By George Frick, M.D. &c. Essays on various sub- jects connected with Midwifery. By William P. Dewees, M.D. &c. The Bal- timore Philosophical Journal and Review. By John B. Davidge, A.M. M.D No. I. July 1823. The Philadelphia Journal of the Medical and Physical Sciences for November 1823. New-York Medical and Physical Journal. Vol. f «°o«o e New Enffla«d Journal of Medicine and Surgery, for Octo- ber 1823. ° J ANALECTA. An engraving of a new Apparatus for the Prevention and Cure of Pointed Ioe. Invented by Joseph Amesbury, Esq. Surgeon. Sulphate of Quinine. Case of Trismus, &c. approaching to Tetanus, supervening to a lacerated wound, successfully treated by Acupuncturation. By Frederick Finch, Esq. Greenwich, m a letter to Dr. Copland. Vegetable Alkali from Rhubarb. Ihe efficacy of Oil m Cases of Poisoning by potass. By M. A. Chereau. M. Ritcher of Moscow's Case of Pregnancy, with Prolapsus Uteri. M. Blaquiere oil Sponge, as a Cataplasm. M. Lavagna on Ammonia as an Emmenagogue. Observations on Tetanus. By D. I. H. Dickson, M.D. National Vaccine Es- tablishment, London. MEDICAL INTELLIGENCE. New Method of preserving Anatomical Preparations. By Horace H. Hayden, Ksq. Surgeon Dentist of Baltimore. Additional Observations on Puerperal Fever. By Dr. James H. Lucas. Dr. Myddleton's Lecture. Philadelphia Vaccine Institution. CONTENTS OF NO. XXVI An Abstract and Analysis of those Causes, which favour and impede the Progress of Medicine. By the Editor. An Essay on strictures in the Urethra. By H. G. Jameson, M.D. An Essay on the Autumnal Fever of Brunswick, Va. By Thomas B. Merrit, M.D. An Essay on the Pathological Characters and Sanability of Consumption. Operation performed and recommended fotf the Cure of imperforate Anus, two cases detailed, illustrative of the Method and Success of it. By John Rhea Barton, M.D. Surgeon of the Pennsylvania Hospital, and of the Philadelphia Aims-House Infirmary. Case of Adhesion of the Sides of the Uterus. By Joseph Wheelright, M.D. of Va. Case of Empyema successfully treated. By Dr. Craven, of Va. REVIEWS. A Practical Essay on Typhus Fever. ByN; Smith, M.D. Professor of the Theory and Practice of Physic and Surgery in Yale College. The New-York Medical Repository of Original Essays and Intelligence relative to Physic and Surgery, &c New series, Vol. VIII. No. 1. for August, 1823. The New-York Medical Repository, for Nov. 1823. The New-England Journal of Medicine and Surgery, for January, 1824. The New-York Medical and Physical Jour- nal. The New-York Medical and Physical Journal, for February and March, 1824. The Philadelphia Journal of the Medical and Physical Sciences. 4 ANALECTA Sleigh's Operation for Stone. Case of Ascites connected with Utero-Ges- tation. Dr. Gregory's Remarks on Small-Pox. Effects of Stricture of the Urethra in a sacculated State of the Bladder. Neuralgia, treated with the Oil of Turpentine. Two Cases of Division of the Symphysis Pubis. Meta- morphosis of Vegetables into Animals. Destruction of a portion of the Spi- nal Marrow. Bronchocele successfully treated with Iodine. Hydrophobia Coffee in Pertussis. Employment of the Stethoscope in Fractures, &c. MEDICAL INTELLIGENCE. Efficacy of Blisters in Epistaxis. Actaea Racemosa in Consumption. Un- united Fracture of the Tibia cured by Exfoliation. Case of worms in a boy, cured by Spirits of Turpentine. Cases of Puerperal convulsions. Entropium, cured by nitric acid. Graduates of the University of Pennsylvania. Graduates of Transylvania University. Graduates of the University of the state of New- York. Medical Society of the state of New-York. Statement of Deaths in the City and Liberties of Philadelphia; also of Baltimore, New-York, anil Boston. Meteorological Observations. *Vhe Proprietor of the Medical Recorder offered, during the last year a pre- mium of one hundred dollars for the best Essay on the Epidemic fevers which have afflicted our country for the last few years. Many were received from various parts of the United States, and the premium was awarded to the Essay which commences this number, to which we earnestly r»commend the attention of the Profession. The usefulness of the design will, we think, be found to be fully supported by the respectability of the memoir, not only as it embraces many of the opinions, on this interesting subject, which have been accumulated in the United States and Europe, in the periodical and other publications, but also, as it gives the re-sult of the experience of an able practitioner, whose philosophical acumen is equalled only by his judg- ment and his zeal. The Subscribers, appointed by Mr. James Webster to examine a number of Essays purporting to be histories of the late Epidemics, having carefully read the same, are unanimously of opinion that the one bearing the motto of " Veritas non filia est auctoritatis," is the best entitled to the proposed premium. WILLIAM P. DEWEES, M.D. JAMES MEASE, M.D. ELIJAH GRIFFITHS, M.D. JOSEPH HARTSHORNE, M.D Philadelphia, April 8th, 1824 CONTENTS OF NO. XXVII. An Essay on Epidemic Fevers. By John E. Cooke, M.D. of Frederick county, Va. An Essay on Fractures of the Lower Limbs. By J Amesbury, Esq. London. Case of Tumour in the Scrotum. By Isaac Hiester, M.D. Read- ing, Pa. Case of Extra-uterine Gestation. By John J. Moorman, M.D. ot Pattonsburg, Va. Case of* Enlarged Tongue, cured by a surgical operation. By Dr. H. S. Newman, Warren county. Pa. An account of a case of Scir- rhous Uterus, in which the cervix Uteri was removed by an operation. Bv H. G.Jameson, M.D. Surgeon to the Baltimore Hospital. 5 REVIEWS. Dublin Hospital Reports and Communications, &c. Vol. III. A case of unusually large Aneurism of the right Axillary Artery, in which the Subcla- vian Artery was tied. By Charles H. Todd, Esq. Surgeon to the Richmond Hospital, Dublin. Transactions of the Surgeon Apothecaries, vol. I. Annual Reports of the Directors of the Glasgow Asylum for Lunatics, for the years 1814, 1815, 1816, 1817, 1818, 1819, 1820, 1821, and 1822. The New-England Journal of Medicine and Surgery for April 1824. The Philadelphia Journal of the Medical and Physical Sciences, for May, 1824. Observations on the Pathology and Treatment of Scrofulous Diseases, with a view to their Pre- vention. By W. P. Alison, M.D. F.R.S.E., &c. ANLECTA. On the medicinal properties of Colchicum. Appearances after Death in a case of Hooping-cough. On the use of the Colchicum in Tape Worm. Gene- ration of Muriatic Acid in the Stomach, during the process of Digestion. On the local application of Belladonna in Puerperal Convulsions. On the specific action of certain substances on particular portions of the Encephalon. Tinc- ture of Nicotiana in Ischuria. A mode of preventing the corrosion of copper sheathing, in ships of war, and other ships. Dupuytren's case of wry Neck. Houlton on the treatment of Intermittents. Ward's cases of Aneurism of the Aorta. Further account of the extraction of calculi from the bladder, with- ou t he use of any cutting instrument. By Sir A. Cooper. On the treatment of Infectious or Typhoid Fever. Carbuncle. Diabetes. Injection of Opium into the veins. Bodies in a state of putrefaction. Opium in acute Mania. Prussic Acid. Blood-letting in Hydrothorax. ffisophagotomy. Extravasa- tion within the Cranium. Varicose Veins. Tracheotomy. Vesico-Vaginal Fistula. Pneumo-Thorax. Communication from Dr. G. Van Dem Busch. Comparative Nutritive properties of food. Analysis of some experiments performed by a committee of the college of Physicians and Surgeons of New- York. Influence of the Eighth pair of Nerves on Digestion. Elementary Structure of the chief animal tissues. Facts in favour of the Contagious na- ture of Croup. Proposal to substitute the Cyanuret of Potassium for the Hy- drocyanic acid in Medicine. On the employment of Strychnia and Brucia in Palsy. Case of Oblongation of the Uvula. Case df Hypertrophy of the Heart. Syphilitic Ulcers. Dr. Gairdner on. the effects of Iodine. Observations on the use of Iodine. Case of Goitre treated with Iodine. Effects of Iodine in Scrofula. New Alkali in jalap. Carbonate of Iron in Neuralgia. On Tuber- cles. Emetine of the Violet. Formula for a preparation of Magnesia. Case of quartan Intermittent. Cases of Epilepsy. Cases in which the Balsam of Peru was successfully employed. Medical I> tllxige-vci:. Fro in the Boston Medical Intelligencer. THE MEDICAL RECORDER. A desire to extend a knowledge, among our professional brethren, of the merits of this highly valuable publication, has induced us to bring this subject again before our readers. Since its first appearance, the Med. Rec. supported a high reputation, but when it came under the superintendance of the present« editor Dr. Colhoun, a spirit was infused into its pages, which has given it a decided superiority Over the multitude of those tame periodical works on medicine, which are continually teeming from the prcsi, and which are rathei indebted td the respectable character evcrv thing acquires by «?Vf>an to the fi intrinsic value of their borrowed and re-borrowed articles. It has too long been the practice, among journalists in the United States, to make up a quar- terly pamphlet out of half a dozen others :—this is the most direct method of ruining a periodical publication, of which fact, our own observation, from several years careful attention to such undertakings, has completely convinc- ed us. There is learning enough, and experience enough, among American Physicians, to afford better specimens of medical literature in this country, than we have been generally treated with for many years past; but there is a sad want of industry, without which, we shall justly feel the reproaches of European writers. Dr. Colhoun has wisely broken over the old laws of due deference to other.people's opinion, and given such brilliant examples of ori- ginality, that we can strongly recommend the Medical Recorder to the notice of the profession, as one of the best public journals of medicine in the Union. It is published at Philadelphia, by Mr. James Webster; but we shall be happy to contribute to its circulation, by furnishing it to the order of any gentleman in this vicinity, who will leave a line at this office, particularly specifying their names and places of residence. From the Frederick-Town Examiner. AMERICAN LITERATURE. f his has been the theme upon which British critics and reviewers have exercised their talents and their pens since its first dawn in this conntry. In London and Edinburgh, more particularly, the most implacable hostility has been evinced, and the subject prosecuted with an ardor worthy of a better cause. How long those transatlantic writers will continue to make the lite- rary productions of America the subjects of irony, burlesque and opprobrium, I will not pretend to determine ; but certain it is, that the rapid progress which has already been made, proves incontestibly, that "o taste for litera- ture" and science, and a genius, talent and industry for their cultivation, are not foreign to our soil. Though it maybe said that " literature is one of those finer manufactures which a new country will always find it easier to im- port than raise," (Edinburgh Review) American literary productions suffi- ciently demonstrate, that we possess not only the materials of those finer manufactures, but the art of converting them into durable stuff, of a fine texture and great durability. America has produced her champions in all the intermediate branches of literature, from the romance to the most ab- struse philosophic and scientific subjects. The lovers of romance may be gratified to learn that among the American writers for their entertainment, one at least may be found, who, in rapidity of composition surpasses, ^nd in elegance of execution is but little, if any, inferior to Sir Wajter Scott of novel memorv. The periodical literature and poetry of our country are sufficient to falsify the assertion "-------------------that this is the land, Where genius sickens, andwliere fancy dies." On the more important subjects of philosophy and science, America can boast of productions which would put the authors of kindred ones of Euro- pean origin to the blush, if brought in competition. To enumerate the vari- ous subjects on which Americans became successful candidates for literary fame, would swell the present remarks to an improper bulk; but the cultiva- tors of medical science, from the variety and importance of their literary pro- ductions, ought not to be passed in silence. Various circumstances conspire to render the labours more extensive, and the productions more numerous in this than in any other class of men. Destined to witness, and called upon to relieve the diseases of their fellow beings—diseases as various in their phe- nomena, as the different organs and textures of the human frame, duty as 7 weft as necessity compels them to make active exertions and indefatigable research to keep the mind prepared for a conscientious discharge of the duties of the profession with that promptitude which is often required. As well might we see a saint without practical devotion, as an able, scientific and conscientious physician without habitual study. The same causes which induc- ed the philanthropic physician to consume the midnight oil in quest of know- ledge, will prompt him to make an effort to become more extensively useful by communicating the result of his experience and reflections to his profes- sional brethren. The thirst for distinction or fame, common to all men in some degree, doubtless operates as an additional, and with many, a more powerful motive. Another circumstance, which is too much neglected by the indolent part ■c the profession, is well calculated to stimulate the votaries of medical sci- e in America, to exercise their talents in literary composition. A disease ivhich bears the same name, frequently presents different phenomena and - mires a modification of treatment under certain constitutional circumstances —in different latitudes, and in the same latitude at different seasons, and even during the same season, under different local circumstances. This may in iome measure account for the discrepancy of opinions among medical phi- ^r losophers.—Hence it is evident that American physicians cannot rely as se- rk jrely on foreign publications, as those who devote their attention to the K cultivation of the sciences which are uniform and invariable in their pheno- mena. Hence too, the encouragement that is, and ever should be extended to the medical periodical publications of our vastly extensive country, the va- riety of climate, soil, &c. of which are not its least interesting features when ontemplated by the medical philosopher. Without intending any disparagement to the other periodical medical jour- nals of our country, I will at present advert to but one. " The Medical Re- corder," conducted by Dr. Colhoun, and published quarterly in Philadelphia, is a work entitled, not only to the patronage, but to the attentive perusal of every physician and medical student in the United States. It is truly an in- dependent work. Under the thraldom of no scholastic dogma, and pledged to support no particular medical college to the prejudice of another, it is exempt from one of the most fatal circumstances which too often attend works of this description—the promulgation of error under the imposing influence of a respectable university. In addition to the important facts, original essays, and interesting reviews, each number of the work is enriched by an abstract of the improvements in medical science, collected from the best English, French, and German pe- riodical journals. The best evidence of the intrinsic merits of the work is derived from the fact, that it is favourably spoken of by the associate of those men who declared that " the supreme felicity of a true born American, is inac- tion of body and inanity of mind." (Quarterly Review.) Some of the ori- ginal essays have been translated into different languages and republished in foreign periodical journals. It may be considered a focus which collects and irradiates the most important medical information. The proprietor of the work, (Mr. Webster,) is entitled to the gratitude of the medical profession and the community, for his activity, zeal, and indefatigable exertion to rende: the work both interesting and useful. RUSH. PREMIUMS. The proprietor of the Medical Recorder, desirous of advancing the science of medicine through the means of his journal, and flattered by the reception of the Essay which lately obtained a premium and was pubhshed in the last number, proposes to offer a series of others. Convinced that the promotion of science will be better effected by leaving the choice of the subject to the candidates themselves, as it will enable every 8 individual to exert his talents in a way best suited to promote the ■ »• view, he requests all persons disposed to write for them, to send ; . - munications on or before the 1st days of November, February. j^:>y, :i.c August, with a sealed letter inclosing the name of the candidate. They will be submitted to the examination of not less than three respectable "'.\ sicians, who will award the premium to those essays which will best iti.ai. >i the interests of the science. The amount of each premium will be $50 tu be paid to the successful candidate, in medical or other books. Tin- pur to be continued for one year ; if successful, the value of the premiun.- II be increased. The communications with a sealed note containing the author's i u m be addressed to the Proprietor of the Medical Recorder, (pnst pc>> y successful Essays will be returned on replication. Office of the Medical Recorder, Philadelphia, Aug. 1824. AMESBURY'S APPARATUS FOR FRACTURES Of THE LOWER EXTREMITIES. The attention of the profession is particularly directed to notice the Cer- tificates in relation to the important advantages of Amesbury's Apparatus for Fractures of the lower Extremities.—By the certificates it will be seen that .i person can move about on crutches with a broken limb with ease and safety, and will answer for either a large or small Hmb. The publisher of the Medical Recorder, respectfully informs the medical .profession, that he keeps for sale the above apparatus, price g>25 cash, manufi>ctHred equal to that he imported, whioJ\ was made under the imme- diate inspection of Mr. Amesbury, who assured him that any improvement he may in future make to his apparatus, he will immediately communicate ; under this assurance, any improvement that maybe made, shall be immediately made known to those who may have purchased. CERTIFICATES. March, 1823. Having witnessed, in my practice at Guy's Hospital considerable advantage . derived from the use of an instrument invented by Mr. Amesbury, for the cure of fractures of the lower limbs, I recommended its employment in a case of non-union of the large bone of the leg in Mrs. U. the lady of one of the most respectable of the country gentlemen of Suffolk, and in a similar exam- ple in Mr. Wallack, the actor, and with the happiest results. In the former case the bone had not united at the end of eight weeks, and in the latter, seven months had elapsed without union : both patients were cured without confinement, either from exercise or amusement, MrS. U. in thirty-eight days, and Mr. Wallack in forty. This instrument seems particularly calculated for the cure of cases of non- union, as it admits of being adjusted so as to confine the fractured parts from motion whilst it .presses the broken extremities of the bone firmly together so as to excite ossific action. Astley Cooper, Surgeon to Guy's Hospital. Southampton Street, Bloomsbury. SIR ; London, April 24, 1823. Having had experience of the great and superior advantages derived from 1° .t peculiar instrument for fractures, in the treatment of two cases of frac- ^°,;re of the leg, and one of the thigh, I am happy to give my testimony of its s tu'lity in compound and even in simple fractures of the lower limbs; and should it be of any service to you, it will give pleasure to your humble sen ant, T. Pobster, Senior Surgeon, Mr Ime^ury, Guy's Hospital, 14, Bloomsbury Square, , ; IR • , April 24, 1823. 1 have great pleasure in affording my testimony in favour of your instru- ment for the treatment of fractures. Although I have casually had an oppor- tunity of seeing the progress of some of those cases which have been treated with it in Guy's hospital, and as far as my observation has gone, have had great reason to think very favourably of the result; yet it is only in the case of Mrs.----that, from frequent attendance during the whole cure, I am ena- bled to speak confidently. In the case of that lady, the union of the fractur- ed ubia.not having taken place, the limb was rendered in a great degree use- less, and her health was beginning to suffer from confinement. By the em- ployment of your instrument, union was brought about without the usual restraints, and her health was much improved during the remainder of her cure, so that I had every reason to think very highly of the treatment adopt- ed, and should certainly recommend it in any similar case. I am, Sir, &c. &c. &c. Mr. Amesbury Richabd Bright. 22, Lincoln's Inn Fields, SIR; . . Feb. 26th, 1823. 1 have great pleasure m expressing my approbation of your apparatus for the treatment of fractures of the lower extremity. It has been successfully employed under my immediate inspection, at St. Thomas's Hospital, in one case of fracture through the middle of the thigh bone ; in one case of simple fracture of the leg extending transversely through both bones; in one case of an un-united fracture of the leg; in three cases of compound fracture of the leg; and in one case of oblique fracture of the leg, which is still under my care. In all these cases the patients have appeared to derive great advantage from the use of the instrument. The main purpose in the employment of mechanical contrivances in the treatment of fractures, seems to be that of preventing displacement of the broken extremities of the bone, both from the motions of the body, and from the actions of the muscles of the limb, under all the incidental varieties in fractures of situation, direction, and complication. This indication is, to the best of my judgment, more effectually and more easily fulfilled by your ap- paratus, and with greater comfort to "tile patient, than by any other contri- vance with which I am acquainted. I am, Sir, &c. &c. &c. Joseph Henry Green, Surgeon to Mr. Amesbury, St. Thomas's Hospital. 22, Lincoln's Inn Fields. SIR; May 8th, 1823. From what I have observed, I may state, that your apparatus fixes the frac- tured parts with more security than other instruments, in consequence of its B 10 he tion in the position of the extremity, a circumstance so necessary under t. f *\ varying states of these accidents that it is the condition of success in man ' cases; and it may be placed so as to ensure extension of the leg or thigh,\ ,'M whether the limb be bent or straight, if the case should require it. When \M used in the treatment of fractures of the thigh below the upper third, or in M the treatment of compound fracture of the leg, it permits the patient to eva- >fl cuate his bowels ; and to be moved from his bed, in order to have it made, and, in most cases of simple fracture of the leg, to sit up or walk, with the as- sistance of crutches, before the bones are united, without the least danger |l of displacing the fractured extremities; and it admits of being placed upon the limb so as to press the broken ends together when the union is tardy. The instrument is easily adjusted ; it may be used in, any situation as it re- quires no auxiliary means or contrivances, and is light and portable ; and its mechanism is free from any unnecessary complication. In fact, from the ex- perience which I have had, it appears to me a most valuable aid in our treat-! ment of fractures of the lower extremities, and, as far as 1 know, original with yourself, at least I do not know of any contrivance which is like it in princi- ple or in mechanism. I-am, Sir, &c. &c. &c. Joseph Henry Green, Surgeon to Mr. Amesbury. . St. Thomas's Hospital. P.S. In reply to your question, whether it would be safe for a patient to be moved out of bed with the ordinary splints, or box, 1 can only say, that I do not think that they are a secure support even in bed; and that, with a cough or in using a bed-pan, I have known patients complain of motion and pain in the fractured part. J- H. G. Guy's Hospital, SIR; Thursday, March 27, 1823. In answer to your note requesting my opinion of your instrument for frac- tures of ihe leg and thigh, I can state with great pleasure my full conviction of its utility. I have seen three cases of simple fracture of the leg treated with it in Guy's Hospital. One, a man about 55 years of age, with a fracture of both bones, on whom the apparatus was applied the second day after the accident; a second was a female aged about 45, with tibia and fibula broken just above the ancle joint, in which case the instrument was not applied till the 14th day ; a third, was in a woman, aged 42, with a severe contusion of the ancle, and fracture of both bones, just above the ancle joint. In this case the instrument was ap- plied on the third day. These patients were allowed to get up in three days after the instrument was applied, and the bones were found firmly united in the usual period ; and they left the hospital without any deformity in their limbs. In a case of fractured thigh, extending through the upper third, now con- valescent in Cornelius ward, I have seen the instrument used with great bene- fit and comfort to the patient. The instrument was applied 31 days ; and dur- ing that time the limb could be freely moved, without displacing the bones or producing pain. I yesterday saw a patient walking in the square of our hospital, with both bones of the leg broken ; and partially dislocated outward, off their articular surfaces. This patient had the instrument applied on the day of the accident, which was only a fortnight ago. These facts speak more strongly in favour of your invention than any gene- li rl opinion I could give. Its real merits when known, cannot fail to procurfe , a favourable and highly welcome reception among the profession. I am, Sir, &c. &c. &c. C Aston Key, Assistant Surgeon, Mr. Amesbury. Guy's Hospital. 26, Dean-Street, SIR; May 8th, 1823. Having been honoured with a letter from the Society of Arts, inviting my Opinion respecting an apparatus for fractured limbs, submitted to it by Mr. Amesbury, I cannot forego expressing my regret at the impossibility of my attending the Committee this evening, inconsequence of a particular engage- ment at a distant quarter of the town., This alone, I assure you, prevents my coming forward as an advocate for this very valuable and novel instrument. I have seen many contrivances for fractured limbs, both in this and other coun- tries, and without the shadow of doubt, I do believe the one now before the committee to embrace more points of utility than any other hitherto intro- duced. Having observed the insufficiency of the common means, as applied to frac- tures in warm climates, I am enabled confidently to expect the most favoura- ble results to this branch of surgery, by the adoption of Mr. Amesbury's plan ; and, on my return to the West Indies, it shall be my care to introduce it as widely as possible. To A. Aiken, Esq. I am, Sir, &c. &c. &o. Secretary, &c. &c. James H. Alieyne. SIR; Dean-street, May 8th, 1823. I should have had much gratification, in complying with the desire of the Committee Of the Society of Arts, intimated to me in your letter; but am pre- vented from doing so by indisposition. Allow me to state, that it is my decided opinion, speaking from ocular de- monstration of its efficacyj that Mr. Amesbury's apparatus is better calculated to answer its intended purposes, than any other which I have hitherto seen used with the view of curing fractures. When it is applied, patients say that they feel a degree of ease and general comfort, which they could scarcely have anticipated to be compatible with the character of their accident. This apparatus admits of motion to the patient and to the limb, in all cases of frac- ture below the upper third of the thigh. In cases of simple fracture of the leg, the patient may not only turn in bed as he pleases, when this apparatus is used, but he may, with common care* go out of the house before the bones are united, without the slightest apprehension of any unpleasant consequence. The advantages which have been already, perhaps, stated to result from this principle, cannot fail to make some impression on reflecting minds. The ju- dicious application of means capable of giving such advantages must, beyond all doubt, contribute materially to the favourable issue of every case. One fact which strikingly illustrates the utility of this apparatus is its application in cases of disunited fractures. It sometimes happens, that in consequence of debility either hereditary or acquired, the fractured ends of bones do not unite This apparatus keeps the parts so quiet, so compact, and in such close apposition that by the exercise which the patient is permitted to take, he acquires health, ossific inflammation is kept up; and union is perfected. ToA.Aikin,Esq. I am, Sir, &c. &c. &c. Secretary, fife, fife JameS RuSS"" CERTIFICATES FROM PHYSICIANS IN THE UNITED STATES Moorestown, New-Jersey, 3d June, 1824. Sir—I hasten to reply to your note of the 31st May, requesting me to "ive a statement of a case of fracture which lately occurred in my practice. wherein Amesbury's apparatus for fractures of the lower extremities v. i- tp4 M plied ; also to give my opinion as to the advantages or disadvantages of >?■ .-j^8 apparatus, compared with others. ^| My patient, A. Mason, about sixty years of age, had one of iii' U-gi: literally ^fl shattered to pieces by the wheels of his waggon. I visited hiin n --v hours '« after the accident, and found a compound comminuted fracture i>f the tibia 'II and fibula about their middle, and a simple fracture near the lower end of tbe^H tibia. The integuments of the limb were very much lacerated ; th upper u end of the lower fragment of the tibia protruded near two in *hes, so t at I a was compelled to make an incision in the flesh to the bone, before I coi.ld 1 succeed in reducing it. As I had always employed Desault's ap pant us % in fractures of the lower extremities, it was accordingly applh .1 in this -J case with the necessary dressing, &c. The external wounds hea._>d in a * few weeks; the simple fracture at the lower part of the tibia united; at near the end of three months from the accident, there was no union of the fracture in the middle of the tibia. At this time Mr. Amesbury's apparatus war- ap- • In, plied, and six weeks after its application, a union of the bones was perceiva- ble : two weeks since, the apparatus was removed, and the bones had united; the limb retains its natural length, and has every appearance in a little more time, of performing its natural functions. I feel confident Mr. Amesbury's apparatus possesses many advantages over others; it was much easier borne by my patient, the fractured fragments better retained in their proper places, the foot of the broken limb is better guarded from the pressure of the bed- ding, and after its first application, it is easier re-applied; it can be easier adapted to the swelling and inflammation of the limb. The patient is not necessarily confined to his bed, but can move about on crutches, which was the case with the one now under consideration. Yours, with respect, S. C. Thornton. To James Webster, Publisher of the Medical Recorder, Philadelphia. N.B. My friend Dr. Spencer saw my patient several times, and agrees with me as to the advantage of Amesbury's apparatus. Arney-town, New-Jersey, June 12th, 1824. Sir—At your request I submit the following statement of the case of fracture of the leg which came under my observation, in which I employed the apparatus of Mr. Amesbury. J. D.—a young man about 26 years of age, on the 10th February 1824, fell from a horse and fractured the tibia and fibula of the right leg, a little below the middle. The tibia was fractured obliquely from within outwards, and the fragments of both bones penetrated through the muscles on the inside of the leg. The fracture being reduced, Hutchinson's Splints were applied. The next day, fever and severe pain supervened, which yielded to one copious bleeding. The inflammation having subsided in a few days, it was found diffi- cult to keep the ends of the tibia in perfect apposition, without very painful extension. In the third week after the accident, a long fracture box making counter-extension in the groin, with an extending screw below the foot, was substituted for Hutchinson's splints. But my patient could not bear sufficient extension to prevent lateral derangement of the fragments of the tibia. Having read of the great advantages which Amesbury's Apparatus for Fractures of the lower extremities possessed, I procured a set from Mr. James Webster, wbich was applied on the 5th March, 24 days after the accident, at which time union of the bones had not commenced. My patient expressed the greatest satisfaction with the change. He was entirely relieved from suf- fering, could be helped out of bed and sit in a chair, whenever it was wished. The fracture was kept quiet without painful extension, and the wound dressed IS s e gi\?" ' onvenience, without any risk of retarding the progt-ess of ,-ven week:, niter the Apparatus was put on, the union was so firm, that i ouU mi* tin leg. As the wound made by the tibia was not quite healed c.. u .; . small exfoliation from the upper fragment, the Apparatus yas t - :■■',. ic . iree weeks longer, when the bones were found firmly unit- I without any deformity, and the wound cicatrized. Soon afitr the application of the apparatus, the leg swelled considerably,- but no disadvantage resulted from it. Had the apparatus been applied imme- dl-.telj an er the injury, is it not highly probable, that a cure would have been pfi- »ed in sir weeks? The great convenience, ease and security of the frac- tu ■-', afforuc 'tin. j:itient, must, in my opinion, give the apparatus a decided r*cicrence to ti. _ommon means employed. Yours, very respectfully, J. W. CANFfttD. To James Webster, publisher of the Medical Recorder, Philadelphia. Philadelphia, June 19,1824. Sir—Though my experience with Amesbury's Apparatus for the lower extremities is limited, yet at your request, it affords me pleasure to state the result of its application, in the only case which has come under my observa- tion. Quarter-Master-Sergeant D—, of the Marines, having fractured his fibula near the ancle, I applied the single splints, bolster, and bandages, which have been recommended by Dupuytren. Under this treatment he was doing well, but as his particular department was suffering for want of attention, and as he became impatient of confinement, I resolved to apply Amesbury's apparatus, and thus afford him an opportunity of partially attending to his duty. Imme- diately after its application, which was on the twelfth day after the limb had been fractured, I was gratified to observe, that he could rise from his bed, without pain, and but with little assistance. The next day he walkd with the aid of crutches across Front Street to the Marine barracks, and continued to do so every day, and without much inconvenience, until the cure was com- pleted, which was effected in about the ordinary period. I am of opinion that this apparatus is the most perfect which has yet been contrived for the ma- nagement of fractures of the lower extremities. I ought to except, perhaps, fractures of the neck of the os femoris, for which it does not appear well adapted. Fractures managed by Amesbury's apparatus, are not influenced in any degree by sudden motion, or change of position. For this reason alone, I think it well calculated to successfully treat such accidents when they occur Respectfully, Thomas Harris, M.D. Surgeon to the N. Hospital Philadelphia To James Webster, Publisher of the Medical Recorder, Philadelphia. To give some idea of the Apparatus, a sketch of them is given AMESBURY'S APPARATUS FOR FRACTURES