saccade

Full Definition

Saccades are rapid, voluntary eye movements that allow quick redirection of gaze from one object to another. These movements are ballistic in nature, meaning they cannot be modified once initiated, and typically last 20-100 milliseconds. Saccades are generated by brainstem burst neurons and are essential for visual scanning, reading, and tracking moving objects. Abnormalities in saccadic function can indicate various neurological conditions affecting the brainstem, cerebellum, or cortical areas involved in eye movement control.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from smooth pursuit movements, which are slow and continuous.

In Context

• "The patient demonstrated slowed saccades consistent with progressive supranuclear palsy." — Movement disorder evaluation
• "Horizontal saccades were normal, but vertical saccades showed significant limitation." — Oculomotor assessment