CHAPTER V.

SURGERY.

Fractures. The Kaffir Surgeon (Igqira Elokuqapula) is fairly expert in such cases and carries out a routine treatment. The usual drawing out of the limb is performed, replacing any noticeable deformity. It is then held in position while the surgeon makes three parallel incisions over the seat of fracture. Into these incisions he rubs the ashes derived from burning the roots of certain plants “awatunga” of which one is the plumbago. The limb thus treated is then bound firmly with strips of the inner bark of the mimosa tree which form an excellent splint material. Some surgeons profess to know a “bone root” which taken internally promotes rapid healing. I have been unable to identify this. It is just possible that this incising and rubbing in of charcoal acts as a counterirritant and thus prevents inflammatory mischief of deeper structures. The selection of carbon in preference to other substances shows at least a rudimentary knowledge of an antiseptic substance being preferable.

Internally purgatives are administered to promote healing and ease restlessness.

Dislocations. Are not generally differentiated from fractures.

Healing Wounds. Sufferers from extensive wounds are usually taken to the top of a neighbouring hill and there kept in a newly built hut. (It would seem that some tradition had taught these people that wounds heal best in fresh air and cleanly surroundings).

In-kubele (Kaffir generic name for healing plants) are frequently used, thus:—

a. The wound is sometimes dressed by the application of the leaves of a small white Lily soaked in brandy or Kaffir beer.

b. The leave of the Ungcelwane (Aloe latifolia) is cut open and the inner surface applied to the wound. The juice of this is pungent and has a marked healing effect.