AFFECTIONS OF THE RECTUM AND OF THE URETHRA.
Engelmann has utilized galvanism in case of hemorrhoids and of pro lapse of the rectum. In case of the former he states: " In case of smaller hemorrhoidal tumors, as in thickening or prolapse of the membrane, I have used recto-abdominal galvanism, the positive ball electrode firmly pressed against the part to be affected either within or without the rectum; a medium-sized or large plate upon the abdomen as the dispersing nega tive electrode; according to patient and condition, currents of from 6 to 30 milliamperes may be used. Larger hemorrhoidal tumors are treated by positive electro-puncture with the platinum needle. It is one of the few cases in which we use the positive pole in electro-puncture, but it is here desirable on account of its coagulating and destructive effect. In small hemorrhoidal tumors I have used currents of 30 to 40 milliamperes with admirable result, and I shall test the treatment in larger tumors, the puncture being made with several needles at the same time." The same
writer has also obtained good results from galvanization in case of pro lapsus recti.
In chronic constipation, as an adjuvant to other methods, electricity has not been sufficiently utilized. Here faradistn is of unquestionable value in restoring tone to the torpid intestines.
As regards affections of the bladder and the urethra, simple irritability may at times be relieved by mild abdomino-spinal, or abdomino-urethral galvanization. Where frequency of micturition is dependent on hyper esthesia of the neck of the bladder, the positive pole may be inserted into the urethra as far as the neck of the bladder. In case of urethral caruncles Engelmann uses galvanism, applying the uncovered negative pole to the growth, a current of from 10 to 20 milliamperes being suffi cient to destroy them.