r tension. Thus, in an interesting series of experiments he has
been able to reduce an arterial pressure of 200 mm. to 140 mm., and an
ocular tension of plus 2 to the normal after eighteen applications of
the high frequency current. The current is applied for ten to fifteen
minutes at a time twice a week. Some surgeons, for example, Wuerdemann,
have suggested the use of electricity combined with massage, and have
apparently achieved satisfactory results.

The constant current has also been much employed for the purpose of
reducing intra-ocular tension. Coleman quotes Le Prince's observations,
who applies the negative pole to the eye and the positive pole to the
neck, gradually passing a current of 30 to 40 ma. during a quarter of an
hour, and who reports notable diminution of tension. Coleman points out
that in his own experience he has not found any patient who would
willingly tolerate more than 19 ma. of current with an ordinary sized
electrode, although he grants that it is possible that Le Prince used a
very large electrode. Unfortunately he does not mention its size.
Ziegler of my own city, who has studied most scientifically and
intelligently the use of electricity in diseases of the eye, announces
this rule: The positive pole should be used in all inflammatory
processes of the eye, glaucoma excepted, and with this rule Coleman
agrees. Now, although the negative pole is a stimulant and therefore not
generally indicated in inflammation, as Coleman points out, the object
in view is to diminish the density of the ocular capsule and its
tension, hence the negative rather than the positive pole should be
used, inasmuch as the former, according to him, while it is a sedative,
hardens tissue and would tend to increase intra-ocular tension by
diminishing excretion. Moreover, in chronic glaucoma the ordinary
inflammatory processes are not present, indeed, primary acute glaucoma
itself is not an inflammation.

I have no personal experience in the use of the constant current with
negative pole application to the eye in the reduction of increased
intra-ocular tension, but quote for our general benefit the opinions of
those who have employed it. I have always been very frankly pessimistic
in regard to the therapeutic value of electricity in ocular disorders.
Perhaps I am wrong; I am willing to be enlightened. There seems little
doubt that Truc and Imbert's observations that high frequency currents
can temporarily reduce intra