THE REACTION OF THE RABBIT TO ELECTRIC CURRENTS DIRECTED THROUGH THE HEART

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Abstract
Sixty-five rabbits were shocked by currents at voltages 34 to 1000, 25 cycle, A.C., directed through the heart and avoiding the medulla, by electrodes attached to the left axilla and right thigh. Effects were studied by kymographic records of aortic B.P., respiration, and by electrocardiograms (lead 2). Shocks below 450 m.a. (240 v.) were not fatal. Ventricular fibrillation followed only 18% of first shocks within the fatal range; this was invariably fatal but was usually succeeded by ventricular coordination without expulsion; these beats might be made expulsive by intravenous injections of adrenalin. The effect of shocks on the remaining animals was a transient ventricular flutter which was succeeded promptly by a condition resembling fatty degeneration.

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