The oculocephalic reflex evaluation evaluates brainstem perform in sufferers with altered ranges of consciousness. This evaluation includes shifting the affected person’s head backward and forward or up and down whereas observing eye actions. In a affected person with an intact brainstem, the eyes will transfer in the wrong way of the pinnacle motion, as if mounted on a degree in house. For instance, if the pinnacle is turned to the correct, the eyes will transfer to the left.
This neurological examination is essential in figuring out the integrity of the brainstem reflexes, notably in comatose or unresponsive people. Its utility lies in differentiating between metabolic and structural causes of unresponsiveness, guiding additional diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Traditionally, this maneuver has been a cornerstone of neurological analysis, providing useful info on the bedside.
