Case of osteosarcoma of both jaws. In which amputation at the joint was effected, and very considerable portions of each bone were removed by operation / [William Hetling].

  • Hetling, William, 1773-1837.
Date:
[1833]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Case of osteosarcoma of both jaws. In which amputation at the joint was effected, and very considerable portions of each bone were removed by operation / [William Hetling]. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    tumour remained perfectly healthy and uncontami- nated. Under this impression, I laid the above view of the case before my colleagues. In consultation, it was determined to endeavour to remove the tumour from its base and attachments, and to destroy, if practicable, the surface of the bone from whence it originated. A few days previously to the operation, I again accurately examined the parts, and removed the few remaining teeth out of my way. No hae¬ morrhage followed. The teeth were sound. On deliberate consideration, I determined to avoid the preliminary step, or rather, I ought to say, im¬ portant operation, which many eminent surgeons have previously adopted in cases less severe, that of first passing a ligature round either the common or external carotid trunk, and tying it finally before the intended operation, or leaving it loose under the artery, to act in imitation of the tournaquet in case of necessity. I decided upon trusting to the able assistance I was sure to obtain from my colleagues ; upon securing branches as they were divided, and employing pressure or the actual cautery; at the same time, I prepared myself to secure the common trunk, if circumstances should ultimately require it. Further reasons for declining this superadded opera¬ tion will be mentioned in the few practical observa¬ tions which will terminate this paper. Feb. 16.—The patient was laid horizontally on the table, on the right side, the head moderately elevated on a firm pillow, so as to place the cheek in the most favourable position for the operation. Two fingers were introduced at the angle of the mouth, between the tumour and the cheek, in the direction