What is the vestibulo-ocular reflex?
In daily life, stress from work and lifestyle can lead to eye discomfort. It is often said that vestibular-ocular reflex testing can be helpful. What exactly is the vestibular-ocular reflex?
What Is the Vestibular-Ocular Reflex
The vestibular-ocular reflex (VOR) is a test method used to evaluate the function of the vestibular and oculomotor nervous systems. Neural reflex functions such as the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) and visual-vestibular interaction (VVI) form the foundation for maintaining normal dynamic visual stability in humans. Changes in visual acuity are measured using the logMAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) method, which directly and sensitively reflects the functional status of the human vestibular-ocular system, retinal stability, and dynamic visual capacity. The vestibular-ocular reflex test involves turning the patient's head 30 degrees upward and irrigating the tympanic membrane with 50 ml of ice-cold saline or water.

In cases of brain death, the vestibular-ocular reflex is absent, and no eye deviation occurs in response to ear stimulation. After each ear stimulation, the patient should be observed for one minute, with a five-minute interval between tests on each ear. Certain medications can suppress the vestibular-ocular reflex, including sedatives, aminoglycosides, tricyclic antidepressants, anticholinergic drugs, and antiepileptic agents. Facial trauma involving the external auditory canal and temporal bone may also inhibit these reflexes.

Maintain healthy daily habits—avoid frequent late nights and ensure sufficient sleep. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!