Page:Sushruta Samhita Vol 1.djvu/175



Now we shall discuss the Chapter which treats of practical instructions in surgical operations (Yogya-Sutra).

The preceptor should see his disciple attends the practice of surgery even if he has already thoroughly mastered the several branches of the science of Medicine, or has perused it in its entirety. In all acts connected with surgical operations of incision, etc. and injection of oil, etc. the pupil should be fully instructed as regards the channels along or into which the operations or applications are to be made (Karma-patha). A pupil, otherwise well read, but uninitiated into the practice (of medicine or surgery) is not competent to take in hand the medical or Surgical treatment of a disease. The art of making specific forms of incision should be taught by making cuts in the body of a Pushpaphala (a kind of gourd, Alavu, watermelon, cucumber, or Ervaruka. The art of making cuts either in the upward or downward direction should be similarly taught. The art of making excisions should be practically demonstrated by making openings in the body of a full water-bag, or in the bladder of a dead animal, or in the side of a leather pouch full of slime or water. The art of scraping should be instructed on a piece of skin on which the hair has been allowed to remain. The art of venesection