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Abstract
Electrophysiologic investigations were carried out on rabbit eyes in which a total detachment of the retina had been induced. The latter is accompanied by a rapid reduction in the amplitude of the recorded b-wave of the electroretinogram with complete abolition of the ERG within 48 hours. These changes are paralleled by degenerative changes in the retinal receptor cells. Retinal separation is accompanied by a reduction in the total corneofundal potential and abolition of the light rise in the electrooculogram. In animals with a long-standing detachment of the retina intravenous sodium azide causes an increase in corneofundal potential after all light-induced changes in potential have been abolished, provided the pigment epithelium remains histologically normal. The techniques used are described and the significance of the findings discussed.