Experimental electrical injury studies

Abstract

Voltages from 10 to 14,000 volts demonstrated currents up to 70 amperes with resistances of approximately 200 ohms in studies in hogs. Below 1,000 volts, a current reduction is observed following arcing and skin necrosis. At the higher voltages, this phenomenon was not observed. The energy required for tissue damage was dependent upon the voltage and time of application. The tissue electrode resistance with stainless steel disc was proportional to the diameter. Skin buring commenced at the periphery of the electrodes and moved inwards. For application of currents between the hindlimbs of the hog, the current per tissue cross-section was greatest in artery and nerve, followed by muscle, fat, bone marrow, and bone cortex.