In humans, the tectospinal tract (or colliculospinal tract) is a decussating extrapyramidal tract that coordinates head/neck and eye movements.[1]: 233 It arises from the superior colliculus of the mesencephalic (midbrain) tectum, and projects to the cervical and upper thoracic spinal cord levels.[1]: 113 It mediates reflex turning of the head and upper trunk in the direction of startling sensory stimuli (visual, auditory, or skin).[1]: 109
It arises from the deep layers of the superior colliculus. It decussates within the posterior part of mesencephalic tegmentum[1]: 233 at the level of the red nucleus.[1]: 241 It descends through the medulla oblongata near the midline[1]: 100 within the medial longitudinal fasciculus.[1]: 241 In the spinal cord, it descends in the anterior funiculus.[1]: 233 It terminates by synapsing with interneurons[1]: 241 of the intermediate zone and anterior grey column.[1]: 233