Predicting motor development in very preterm infants at 12 months' corrected age: The role of qualitative magnetic resonance imaging and general movements assessments

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to compare the predictive value of qualitative MRI of brain structure at term and general movements assessments at 1 and 3 months' corrected age for motor outcome at 1 year's corrected age in very preterm infants. PATIENTS AND METHODS. Eighty-six very preterm infants (90%); however, the sensitivity was low. On the other hand, general movements assessments at 1 month had the highest sensitivity (>80%); however, the overall accuracy was relatively low. CONCLUSION. Neuroimaging (MRI) and functional (general movements) examinations have important complementary roles in predicting motor development of very preterm infants. © 2009 by the American Academy ..