14. =Deep Muscles of Neck.= Note same conditions in these muscles as mentioned above for abdominal and thoracic muscles. Retropharyngeal abscesses and hemorrhages resulting from fractures and luxations of the vertebræ are the most common conditions. 15. =Cervical Vertebrae.= Anterior surface should be smooth. Fractures, luxations and tuberculosis are the most common conditions. In caries of the vertebral bodies the surfaces become rough and sharp. In luxations irregular prominences and deviations are found. The prominent portion usually shows sharp edges. CHAPTER X. THE EXAMINATION OF THE ABDOMEN. I. METHODS OF EXAMINATION. The preliminary general inspection of the peritoneal cavity was made after the main incision. (See Chapter VII.) After the examination of the neck and thoracic organs has been completed, the abdominal organs are removed and examined separately. The method to be followed must be varied to meet the conditions. In the case of extensive carcinomatosis, general peritonitis, peritoneal tuberculosis, pseudomyxoma peritonei, etc., when adhesions are numerous and the abdominal organs matted together, the examination becomes very difficult, and it may be necessary to remove the abdominal organs _en masse_ and dissect them on the table. If the œsophagus and aorta have not been removed from the thorax they are stripped down to the diaphragm, which is cut on both sides, so that aorta, œsophagus and the abdominal organs en masse can be stripped down to the brim of the pelvis and there cut off to be examined outside the body.