Binocular saccades in myopes and emmetropes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vision Science
• Optometry

Background:

• Refractive error development is influenced by various factors.
• Saccadic eye movements are crucial for visual perception and may impact refractive error progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential differences in saccadic eye movements between individuals with myopia and emmetropia.
• To explore the relationship between saccadic eye movement parameters and refractive error, including axial length.

Main Methods:

• Horizontal saccadic eye movements were recorded in 28 participants (14 myopes, 14 emmetropes) using a head-mounted eye tracker.
• Participants alternated fixation between two stimuli presented on a monitor, with head movements minimized using a chin rest.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in saccadic durations, amplitudes, peak velocities, or fixation accuracy were observed between myopes and emmetropes.
• Saccadic eye movement parameters did not correlate with axial length or refractive error in the overall or emmetropic groups.
• A weak, non-significant correlation between peak velocity and refractive error/axial length was noted in myopes.

Conclusions:

• Saccadic eye movements are comparable in individuals with myopia and emmetropia.
• Current evidence does not support a role for saccadic eye movements in the development of myopia.