A procedure for the analysis of nystagmus and other eye movements

Abstract

A simple procedure has been developed for the computer analysis of nystagmus and other eye movements using the superior pattern recognition capabilities of the human operator to distinguish between fast- and slow-phase eye movements. The basis of the procedure is that the operator can set up threshold limits around an expected slow-phase eye velocity waveform through the use of cursor facilities. Points lying outside the threshold limits are recognised as fast-phase eye movements and discarded. Various least-squares curve-fitting procedures are then used to establish the relationship between the oculomotor response and the stimulus waveform. Examples are given of analysis procedures for both periodic and transient responses of the vestibulo-ocular reflex. The method is particularly useful for the analysis of responses to voluntary head movement in which slow-phase velocity frequently approaches that of the fast-phase components.