HC Deb 24 June 1915 vol 72 cc1333-4
54. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in order to deal with wounds at the front in cases where immediate operation is indicated, motor theatres are in use; if not, whether he can state any objections that have arisen as to their employment; and whether he will cause to be submitted to study, with a view to adoption, the best features of the Belgian system, which has given excellent results?

Mr. TENNANT

Motor operating theatres are not in use; they are not considered necessary, as facilities for carrying out operations are available as near the front as is deemed advisable. The Belgian practice in this matter has been duly considered.

56. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been directed to a discussion in the French Academy of Medicine on the treatment of wounds, in regard to which sharp difference of opinion was shown as to the value of antiseptics in infected wounds; and whether he can state what is the practice in the British Medical Service, both as to infected wounds and uninfected wounds?

Mr. TENNANT

The discussion in the French Academy of Medicine on the treatment of wounds has been considered by our consulting surgeons in France, and a report on the result of their experience in the treatment of both infected and non-infected wounds is being prepared for circulation to all military hospitals. The treatment of each wound must depend on many circumstances, but the practice in the British Medical Service is that known as the antiseptic method.

58. Mr. LYNCH

asked whether the mode of treating wounded which is known as the Watson-Cheyne treatment, by means of cresol paste, has given satisfactory results; and, if not, whether its use has been discontinued in the Army service?

Mr. TENNANT

The results obtained by the use of cresol paste in the treatment of wounds have not been satisfactory, and its use has been discontinued.

59. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can state the rate of mortality due to abdominal wounds at the Western front; and also the rate in cases of compound fractures in which it has been found necessary to sacrifice the limb?

Mr. TENNANT

No, Sir, I am afraid that information is, not available.