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over-estimated, however, as often it seems to confer but temporary amelioration,
thus producing an unjustifiable sense of security. I have found that in Cases
of Acute Mastoiditis, where before the days of M. & B. products and Penicillin
(combined or separate), I should have operated, the results seem to have been
quite as satisfactory as with their use—whilst in recent Cases of this disease,
even though these drugs have been administered, operation has had to be
resorted to after all. However, there is no question that these drugs have
proved of very great value in some very severe Cases, and seem to have
aborted the onset of serious complications in mild acute conditions.
The sensitivity, or its opposite to these chemical products—and the
type of bacteria that are chiefly attacked by them, are two problems that
necessitate much careful investigation.
In Cases of Eustachian infection that is maintaining Tympanic suppuration,
as evidenced by the persistence of a thin, muco-purulent discharge, can
often be successfully treated by Eustachian Catheterisation, with, the injection
into the tube of the following oil, viz.:—
Iodum Resublimat gr. 2 Ol. Eucalypti m. 3
Menthol gr. 5 Ol. Sassafras m. 3
Camphor gr. 3 Liq. Paraffin ad. 1
It can be truthfully said that Chronic Tympanico-Mastoid suppuration
is much easier to cure where no diseased Tonsils or Adenoid excess are present.
Among the list of cases was one of Enuresis, which was definitely
improved after Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy.
I have found it very difficult to estimate many results of treatment in
these children, as so large a number have failed to keep their appointments."
(/) Speech Defects.
Cases of speech defects were dealt with by the Speech Therapist and
the following is an account of the year's work:—
"The work of the Clinic has continued steadily with five sessions per
week throughout the year. Our new premises have proved most useful and
we feel really happy and at home there. We should, however, like some
more equipment—toys, books, etc., and one or two gay pictures would make
our quarters more attractive to the children.
The clinic was first opened in 1937 and looking back over ten years'
work through the stress and strain of war and post-war conditions we feel
reasonably satisfied. In all 833 school children have been seen, this year we
have a record high number of discharges (70) and a record low number of
children awaiting treatment (14). A pleasant aspect of our work at Pymmes
Park has been the friendly calls we have received from parents of old cases
who were visiting other departments in the building. We have always held
the view that happy co-operation with the parents is one of the essentials
of successful speech therapeutic work among children and we have been
gratified that busy mothers should find a few minutes to come and thank us
for work done in the past.
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