The neuroanatomical basis of oculomotor disorders:: the dual motor control of extraocular muscles and its possible role in proprioception

Current investigations show that two separate sets of motoneurons control the extraocular eye muscles, and that is there is a dual final common pathway. We propose that one set of motoneurons are the major source of tension generating eye movements, whereas the other may participate in a proprioceptive system concerned more with the exact alignment and stabilization of the eyes. In this article we discuss the structures that may participate in the proprioceptive circuits; and consider several recent publications in the light of this sensory feedback hypothesis, emphasizing the relevance to eye movement disorders. Curr Opin Neurol 15:35-43. (C) 2002 Lippincott Williams Wilkins.