[Electrolysis in rhinolaryngology--one of justifiably forgotten method of XIX-century therapy].

The essence of electrolysis, the physico-chemical changes in this process are described first of all. The constructions of electrolytic apparatuses and needles is presented in more detail. The achievements of such physicians as Julius Althaus and Victor von Bruns are pointed out. The role of such rhinolaryngologists as Friedrich E. Voltolini, Arthur Kuttner, Ricardo Botey, Kafemann, Antoni Jurasz sen. and Teodor Heryng in therapeutical process of electrolysis is presented with full particulars. The electrolysis was used especially in hypertrophic rhinitis, deformations of nasal septum, nasal scleroma, tumores of naso-pharyngeal cavity, hypertrophy of palatine tonsills, laryngeal polypes, laryngeal tuberculosis and laryngeal stenosis. Electrolysis was a prolonged and rather painful method and is justifiably forgotten method.