Some Effects of Ultrasonic Energy on the Rabbit Eye

Considerable controversy and confusion appear in the literature regarding the effects of ultrasound on the eye because the exact conditions of the experimental procedures are not clearly defined and understood. Fischer1has reviewed the biologic action of ultrasound, classifying the effects as thermal, mechanical, and chemical. Begui2considered that knowledge of the physical characteristics of the different parts of the eye as they affect the propagation of ultrasonic waves would be useful. He measured the density and the viscosity in the refractive parts of the eye (aqueous, lens, and vitreous), together with the velocity of the ultrasonic waves and their absorption coefficient. The purpose of our investigation was to observe the effects of ultrasonic energy on the structures of the eye of the rabbit. Observations were made on intact as well as on enucleated eyes. Different outputs of energy and various durations of exposure to ultrasound were