BAND′AGE

(āje). Syn. Deliga′tio , Fas′′cia , Liga′men , Ligatu′′ra , Vinctu′′ra , L.; Bandage , Bande , Fr.; Binde , Verb and , Ger. In surgery , the fillet, roller, or cloths, used to support parts, to exert pre ure on them, or to retain dre ings in their proper places. Bandages are usually formed of long narrow slips of calico or linen, and, occasionally, of flannel, which are generally made into a roll ( ROLLER ) of moderate size, so as to be the more conveniently handled and applied. They are either SIMPLE , as the cir′cular, the spīral, or the unīt′ing bandage; or COMPOUND , as the T-bandage, suspen′sory b., . The application of bandages, as in the dre ing of wounds, ulcers, ., though of such frequent occurrence, is often very carele ly and badly done. The form and nature of the part, and the object in view, should always receive consideration; as should also the condition of the patient after their application—whether of repose, exercise, or labour. Ordinary ingenuity will supply the rest. The safest, simplest, and most effective means of fastening them is, in most cases, furnished by a common needle and thread or cotton.