Using small amplitude saccades to assess saccadic velocity
Reviewed by Claire Howard

Saccades are a key component in the assessment and diagnosis of neuro-ophthalmological disorders. Clinicians are typically taught to use large amplitude saccades (LAS) of at least 20 degrees to assess saccadic velocity. It has been suggested, however, that small amplitude saccades (SAS) of less than 20 degrees may be more effective. This study aimed to evaluate the advantages of SAS over LAS by presenting a video to 108 clinicians where both methods were used to assess a patient with a unilateral partial 6th nerve palsy. SAS was the preferred method in identifying the 6th nerve palsy by 43/55 (78.2%) of neurologists, and 36/53 (67.9%) of ophthalmologists. The authors suggest that SAS may be a more effective method than LAS for determining saccadic velocity. Subsequently, improvements in diagnosis and management may be possible by employing this technique among clinicians who assess saccadic eye movements. 

Assessment of saccadic velocity at the bedside.
Ling ML, Tynan D, Ruan CW, et al.
NEURO-OPHTHALMOLOGY
2020;44(1):71-5.