ABSTRACT
Elective defects in grasping objects under visual control can occur even in the absence of paralysis or defects in visual acuity. The correct reception of visual information by the occipital cortex assumes that the retina be intact, thus normal visual acuity, and no amputation of the visual field in the sector explored. It is also important that there be no diplopia and that the object be recognized in the absence of any visual agnosia. Correct visuomotor coordination implies that the systems responsible for gathering visual and proprioceptive information, then for integrating it and transmitting it to the corresponding motor area, are all functioning properly. Visual experience is necessary for the development of good visuomotor coordination: A kitten kept in darkness does not develop righting reactions when approaching a plane. In order to grasp an object, it needs to have the visual experience of its front paws.
