Effect of Electric Currents on the Arteries.

Abstract

In a series of experiments the effect of electric currents of low tension (110 to 220 volts) on the femoral artery of the dog has been tested. These currents do not cause any anatomical changes if the blood is circulating freely. Combination of the passage of the current with a stopping of the circulation at a point distal to the electrodes leads to a complete destruction of the muscle fibres of the media, while the elastic fibres retain their specific staining properties but lose their elasticity. It is suggested that the heat that is liberated in the vessel wall produces this effect. The circulating blood prevents the overheating of the wall. Hence, no changes result in the experiments in which there is no interference with the free circulation. Added proof to this explanation is the fact that a slight searing of the vessel with a hot ware leads to almost identical changes.

The vessels with the media practically gone become much dilated but they do not rupture. After several months the media has been replaced by a dense hyaline connective tissue with a scanty elastic network. No muscle fibres can be detected. The intima is thickened and also the adventitia has increased much in thickness and density.