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BROMIDE OF ETHYL.
395
sponge, as the degree of anaesthesia should be governed, in most
cases, by the nature of the operation to be performed under its
influence.
The odor of bromide of ethyl is more rapidly removed, and is
more agreeable than that of sulphuric ether, and its effects more
rapid than even those of chloroform, as it is eliminated by respira-
tion, and by the kidneys. Having no caustic action, it can be safely
applied subcutaneously, and also to the external auditory meatus
and to the mucous membrane. It evaporates upon the skin very
rapidly, producing a very sensible feeling of cold. The general
effects claimed for ethyl bromide are as follows : Moderate ac-
slight excitement or talk-
celeration of the pulse and respiration ;
ing, and seldom any struggling ; flushing of face ; dilatation, some-
times preceded by contraction of pupil ; diaphoresis, generally
profuse ; complete anaesthesia in two or three minutes ; recovery
of consciousness in from one to two minutes after the withdrawal
of the anaesthetic agent ; no after-vomiting.
Any specimen of bromide of ethyl which has a disagreeable
odor, or which, on standing, becomes brown, or any that will
explode and burn, is impure and should not be employed for in-
halation. A common impurity is hromoform^ produced by the
action of bromine and caustic potassa on alcohol or wood spirit.
Bromide of ethyl possesses properties intermediate between those
of chloroform and ether. As a local anaesthetic it is highly
spoken of, and, owing to its non-inflammability, is the only
anaesthetic which can be used in connection with the actual
cautery. Dr. Byrd strongly recommends an anaesthetic mixture
of bromide of ethyl i part, chloroform parts and alcohcl 4
3
parts, a drachm of which is poured upon the sponge of the in-
haler, which the patient is allowed to inhale with the stopper out,
after which the stopper is replaced and the full strength of the
mixture inhaled. Generally in five minutes the patient is fully
anaesthetized, when the stopper may be taken out to permit a
greater admixture of air, and replaced as the judgment of the
operator may dictate. This mixture, it is claimed, is safer and
less disagreeable in its effects than the bromide alone. For use
as a local anaesthetic, the bromide of ethyl is atomized with the