THE USE OF PHYSOSTIGMIN IN ABDOMINAL DISTENTION

Abstract

Every one who practices abdominal surgery observes gastric and intestinal distention occasionally, which symptom is responsible for much of the postoperative distress that frequently follows abdominal operations. This distention is usually relieved by such ordinary measures as enemas, gastric lavage or colonic irrigation, but it sometimes follows a relatively simple operation, such as that for the removal of the appendix during the interval following an acute attack, and it may even cause death in such cases despite all treatment. It is evident, therefore, that any measure which affords relief in those cases in which a fatal termination is to be feared, deserves careful consideration. There are many references in the literature to the use of physostigmin for the relief of abdominal distention, but the application is based on theoretical considerations rather than on clinical experience, and recent observers state that the drug is uncertain in its therapeutic effects and that