Linear model for visual-vestibular interaction

Abstract

The results of experiments are evaluated in terms of a simple model for the interaction of eye movement responses to simultaneous optokinetic and vestibular stimuli. The model predictions agree with the results of these experiments and explain many clinical observations concerning the effect of vision on nystagmus. The model accounts for the dominance of the visual system's response over the vestibular system's response at low frequencies. It also accounts for the inability of patients with decreased smooth pursuit system response to suppress the vestibulo-ocular reflex during simultaneous optokinetic and vestibular stimulations. The model provides useful information for the design of combined optokinetic and vestibular stimuli for test vestibulo-ocular reflexes.