Effect of Section and Compression of the Optic Nerve on the ERG in the Rabbit

Abstract

After section of the optic nerve, either intracranial or intraorbital, the b-wave amplitude of the ERG rose rapidly to a peak 300-330% of the original amplitude, but hence decreased to 200-250% in 12 hours after the lesion of the optic nerve. After compression of the optic nerve, the rise of the b-wave amplitude was slower. The peak value did not exceed the range of 180-250%, the subsequent drop being also less marked. The results showed no obvious difference whether the site of lesion on the optic nerve was intracranial or intraorbital.