Comparing the Smooth Pursuit and Saccadic Eye Movements in Rugby Players to a Normative Database

There is increasing evidence to suggest ocular-based tools may improve the sensitivity of sideline concussion detection protocols. Currently, normative saccadic and smooth pursuit eye movements in the general population have been documented for digital eyetracking tests such as the RightEye Neuro Vision™ test (RightEye). However, this normative database may not accurately represent athletes. This study examined the saccadic and smooth pursuit systems in premiership-grade young rugby athletes as compared to published population means. It also investigated impacts of age and previous concussion within the last 12 months on oculomotor function.