Imaging correlates of neural control of ocular movements

The purpose of oculomotor movements is maintenance of clear images on the retina. Beyond this oversimplification, it requires several different types of ocular movements and reflexes to focus objects of interest to the fovea-the only portion of retina capable of sharp and clear vision. The different movements and reflexes that execute this task are the saccades, smooth pursuit movements, fixation, accommodation, and the optokinetic and vestibulo-ocular reflexes. Many different centres in the cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem and thalami, control these movements via different pathways. At the outset, these mechanisms appear dauntingly complex to a radiologist. However, only a little effort could make it possible to understand these neural controls and empower the reading session. The following review on ocular movements and their neural control will enable radiologists and clinicians to correlate lesions with clinical deficits effectively without being swamped by exhaustive detail. Key Points • Knowledge of cortical and subcortical areas controlling ocular movements is important. • Understanding of neural control of ocular movements makes a good foundation. • Awareness of anatomic areas controlling ocular movements helps in clinico-radiologic correlation.