Induction of reversible cortical block by intense cold

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The cerebral cortex of the cat was frozen by local spraying with ethyl chloride on the oiled cortical surface. Evoked optic cortical responses were blocked during the spray and briefly thereafter, leaving a pure radiation spike at the cortical surface. The electrical activity of the frozen cortex returned after normal temperatures returned and recovery of evoked response appeared normal in all respects. A complete cycle under optimal conditions required about 3 minutes, provided complete block was obtained during a 10-second spray exposure. The method is excellent for producing complete and reversible cortical block for brief periods. However, its effectiveness for any given application should be monitored, since variation in the spray characterisitcs can delay the time of complete block.