Reduce the hernia and examine the margins of the hernial ring with
care so as to be thoroughly acquainted with the character and
situation of these margins. Remember that the tissues are often very
thin and that an injection in the center of the hernia may simply go
through the peritoneum and thus be placed directly in the abdomen.
Injections of paraffin into the peritoneal cavity of animals have not
proven to be dangerous, the agent not causing irritation of the
surface of the peritoneum when sterile.
Umbilical hernia may be injected with a hypodermic needle building out
from the margins of the hernial opening, but it is well not to inject
with too great freedom. After diffusing the tissues of the canal or
ring a pad and binder should be applied and the patient given two
weeks interval to see if sufficient of the connective tissue has
developed to close the canal. If the hernia is not overcome and recurs
injections may be repeated.