Vestibulo-ocular

Vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) is a reflex action of the eye that stabilizes images on the retina during head movement by producing an eye movement in the direction opposite to head movement. This reflex action is driven by the vestibular system and allows for the maintenance of clear vision.

Function

The primary function of the vestibulo-ocular reflex is to ensure that vision remains stable despite changes in the position or movement of the head. This is achieved by moving the eyes in the opposite direction to the head movement, thus maintaining the image in the same position on the retina.

Mechanism

The vestibulo-ocular reflex involves a three-neuron arc that includes the vestibular nerve, the vestibular nuclei in the brainstem, and the oculomotor nerves. When the head moves, the semicircular canals of the vestibular system detect this movement and send signals via the vestibular nerve to the vestibular nuclei. These nuclei then send signals via the oculomotor nerves to the eye muscles, causing them to move in the opposite direction to the head movement.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities of the vestibulo-ocular reflex can lead to symptoms such as nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), vertigo (a sensation of spinning), and oscillopsia (a perception that the world is oscillating or moving). These symptoms can be indicative of conditions such as vestibular neuritis, Meniere's disease, or vestibular schwannoma.

See also

• Vestibular system
• Vestibular nerve
• Vestibular nuclei
• Oculomotor nerves
• Semicircular canals
• Nystagmus
• Vertigo
• Oscillopsia
• Vestibular neuritis
• Meniere's disease
• Vestibular schwannoma

Vestibulo-ocular Resources
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